Our primary objective here at Digicom is to ensure that you stay informed about the dynamic landscape of international trade. Which is why today, we are delving into an important development in international trade: the impending Brexit import controls set to be implemented by the UK between October 2023 and October 2024. These changes will have significant implications for Irish exports to the UK, with the exception of those to Northern Ireland.
Navigating the New Brexit Import Controls
With the new import controls, the agri-food sector is poised to face major changes. New regulations will require businesses to pre-notify authorities about their shipments and certify that specific categories of goods meet requisite standards. This might include health and safety regulations for certain products which are changes aimed to facilitate smoother and faster customs clearance.
Moreover, changes to ferry-boarding formalities and customs declarations will require businesses to provide necessary documentation upon the arrival of goods in the UK. While we understand this could increase the administrative burden, it may also hasten the customs clearance process, making for a more efficient trade flow.
Preparation is Key
In anticipation of these new import controls, it is crucial for Irish exporters to prepare in understanding the new requirements and adjusting their business practices accordingly. For instance, businesses may need to devise new procedures for gathering and submitting required information or renegotiate their contracts with suppliers or customers to account for changes in costs or delivery times.
The Minister of State for European Affairs, Peter Burke, has also emphasised the importance of communication within supply chains to navigate these changes, suggesting that businesses should work closely with their suppliers and logistics providers to ensure a seamless transition.
Awaiting Final Details
The UK government is yet to disclose the final details of the new import requirements but they are expected to do so soon. Once published, businesses will have a clearer understanding of what they need to do to comply with the new rules. The government is also likely to collaborate with affected sectors, providing guidance and advice to help navigate the changes. Therefore, it is advisable for businesses to closely monitor the government’s Brexit website and other relevant resources for updates.
We’re Here For You
With the increase in customs paperwork and processes involved in these new changes, Digicom’s digital customs platform can help you now more than ever. We are committed to being your trusted partner.
Using our expertise, we aim to ensure your business remains prepared, adaptable, and resilient. Remember, change may be the only constant, but preparedness is the key to thriving amid changes.
Stay tuned to our blog for more updates and insights on this and other developments that affect the landscape of international trade.
References:
Irish Times (2023) Irish exporters urged to prepare for UK’s new Brexit import controls. Available at: https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/07/18/irish-exporters-urged-to-prepare-for-uks-new-brexit-import-controls/ (Accessed: 19 July 2023).
Government of Ireland (2023) UK Import Controls 2023: The Border Target Operating Model (TOM). Available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/668a0-uk-import-controls-2023-the-border-target-operating-model-tom/ (Accessed: 19 July 2023).
