Brexit Without Deal Strains UK Data Transfers

A survey by the German Data Association for Digital Economy (BVDW) of 81 member companies finds that a Brexit without an exit agreement on March 29 would severely complicate data transfers to and from the United Kingdom. Without an adequacy decision for the UK, the EU would not automatically ensure GDPR-era transfer protections, creating substantial regulatory hurdles. About 71% of respondents view an UK adequacy decision as highly important; without it, transfers would have limited legal grounds from March 30 onward, necessitating extensive coordination and audits. Around 60% anticipate the required reconfiguration to take at least a year. Some companies have begun relocating headquarters within the EU to mitigate risk. The findings highlight material implications for privacy compliance, data flows, and the European digital economy in a no‑deal Brexit scenario.