The introduction of comprehensive import controls into Great Britain is further delayed. The London government is planning a digital trading system that should reduce the bureaucratic burden.
Great Britain actually wanted to tighten its controls for certain goods from the European Union from October 31st. However, the new requirements should not apply until January 2024, as the government in London announced. As recently as April, she declared that she would require health certificates for some animal products, plants, food and feed from Europe from October 31.
Further requirements such as goods controls and security declarations are to be gradually introduced by 2024. The EU, on the other hand, has already introduced controls on British goods, causing delays and higher costs.
Great Britain left the EU single market in January 2021. Since then, London has postponed full implementation of border controls several times over fears of disrupting ports and further fueling inflation. After hearing the economy, the decision was made to postpone it again, the British government said. This should give companies more time to prepare.
Digital trading system in preparation
The new model for border controls that has now been published provides for improved use of data and technology. This is intended to reduce the bureaucratic burden on companies when importing goods. These changes are expected to save businesses around £520m (€606m) a year in costs. A “single trade window” system is planned to simplify and streamline import and export processes so that traders only have to submit information once.
“Businesses will welcome this clarity as they prepare for the difficult transition to a digital trading system,” said William Bain of the UK Chamber of Commerce. “The key is the preparation.”
According to the trade policy expert, companies are making long-term investment and supply chain decisions. They must be able to trust that the physical and digital infrastructure around the UK border will be available in good time.