I am an Etsy seller and I am waging this struggle not just for myself, but also for thousands of small business owners across the UK. We all face a threat to the growth of our businesses: the GPSR regulations that could potentially stand between us and our vital EU customers. Like many such traders, I rely heavily on the expansive EU market to maintain income streams, a significant portion of which is now effectively gone, unless the government intervenes.

It's an understatement to say that the cost to comply with GPSR, the General Product Safety Regulations, for small sellers is prohibitive. This impacts not just me but countless others who could see their businesses torpedoed because the costs are too steep, or their customer base choked off out of necessity. It is an alarming prospect, but one we can change with direct action and concerted efforts.

The government has expressed commitment to supporting new businesses and entrepreneurs, yet this massive regulatory hurdle is an exception to the rule. A byzantine bureaucracy may not only effectively close off a huge potential market but could also put some out of business. Small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy. MarketWatch reported that 99.3% of private sector businesses were small businesses at the start of 2020, providing 60% of all private sector employment in the UK.

In this critical juncture, we urge the government to enter into talks with the EU regarding the GPSR regulations. The authorities should form an understanding of the struggles that small businesses, particularly those operating on platforms like Etsy, face. Thus, by making acceptions to or amending the GPSR regulations, we safeguard small businesses from detriment and allow them to have continued access to their essential EU market.

By signing this petition, you lend your voice to a cause that can prevent irreparable damage to small businesses. Join us in this effort to preserve the diversity and vibrancy of our economy. Sign the petition now!