BELFAST: Northern Irish retailers, especially those near the border with the republic, will face tougher competition next year when VAT rises to 20%.
Chambers Ireland welcomed the UK government's decision to increase the rate of VAT bringing it closer to the 21% levied in the republic.
Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland chief executive said, "Today's announcement has the potential to bring real relief to many Irish businesses by further reducing cost differentials between Ireland and the United Kingdom."
