A coalition of Gibraltar’s leading business organisations, including the GFSB, Chamber of Commerce and sector bodies, has written to the Chief Minister and Minister for Business following up on their February open letter on treaty readiness.

Its main message? The extra time ahead of the 15th July implementation is welcome, but what really matters now is how this time is being used.

Why this letter matters

The revised treaty timeline has created a window to prepare. Our view is that this window must now deliver practical outcomes, particularly for those most affected by the changes.

“The delayed implementation of the Treaty provides a very welcome, and much-needed opportunity to put in place measures to assist businesses.”

But the letter makes clear that two priorities remain unresolved.

Priority one: clear written guidance
The first ask is straightforward: clarity.

“The absence of definitive and accessible information continues to create uncertainty, making it difficult for businesses to plan, invest and comply.”

This reflects what many members have been saying in recent weeks. Engagement is underway, but practical written guidance remains limited.

Priority two: direct financial support
The second issue is more pressing: financial support.

The named business groups are calling for direct financial support, particularly for goods-based sectors facing immediate cost pressures.

“Without targeted financial assistance, there is a real risk to business continuity, employment and wider economic stability.”

While existing measures are acknowledged, the letter notes they do not include direct support comparable to schemes seen elsewhere in Europe.

What’s been welcomed
The letter recognises the support measures already announced, including:

• Transaction tax deductions
• Additional business rates relief
• Recruitment support measures
• A commercial rent freeze
• A planned business manual

These are seen as positive steps, but not the full solution.

Where more clarity is still needed

A significant part of the letter focuses on operational uncertainty, particularly around imports and compliance.

Key areas highlighted include:

• Clear guidance on importation processes
• Ongoing confusion around EORI and NIF requirements
• The potential need for a dedicated Treaty Office
• Questions around IVA guarantees and freight arrangements
• Lack of detail on transitional provisions and tax calculations

“The ongoing issues surrounding EORI / NIF numbers must be resolved as a priority.”

So, now what?

The next meeting of the Business Transition Advisory Group (BTAG) is expected to focus on:

• Improving how information is shared with businesses
• The case for direct financial support

The intention is to move from broad discussion to more structured, practical solutions. The coming weeks will be important in determining whether that gap is closed. As always, the GFSB will update its members on any new developments, make sure you read our weekly Thrive EDIT newsletter and follow our socials.

Read the full letter