On 1 January 2022, there will be changes for businesses in Great Britain who import from the EU. There will also be changes for UK businesses who sell goods in the EU.

Businesses moving goods from the EU to Great Britain need to prepare for import control changes which will take effect from 1 January 2022.

Customs declarations on imports from the EU to Great Britain must be completed at the time you or your courier/freight forwarder bring them into GB. Pre-notification will be required to import certain SPS goods, such as meat or plants, to GB from the EU. You will need to register for the relevant IT systems for animal and plant products to ensure your business is prepared for prenotification requirements from 1 January 2022.

If you sell goods to the EU, or buy goods from the EU and bring them into the UK, and they meet the rules of origin requirements, you will be able to use preferential tariffs.

To benefit from the preferential tariffs, you must have proof that:

● goods you import into the UK from the EU originate there

● goods you export to the EU originate in the UK

Throughout 2021, you have been allowed to export goods to the EU using reduced tariffs and get supplier declarations afterwards, to give you more time. From 1 January 2022, you must have supplier declarations (where required) at the time you export your goods.

If you cannot prove the origin of the products you’re importing or exporting, the full rate of customs duty will be charged.

Find out what you need to do, visit https://gov.uk/import-goods-into-uk and follow the step-by-step guide to prepare for import control changes.

To prepare for the changes to Rules of Origin, go to https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/rules-of-origin-for-goods-moving-between-the-uk-and-eu

To check if you need to pre-notify visit

● Plants – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/import-plants-and-plant-products-from-the-eu-to-great-britain-and-northern-ireland

● Animal products – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/import-of-products-animals-food-and-feed-system

For practical support with exporting your products, contact the Export Support Service online or by phone: