NWUPC

Starting 31st January 2025, all goods imported from the European Union (EU) to Great Britain must be accompanied by a safety and security declaration, also known as an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), according to an announcement by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This requirement marks a significant shift in post-Brexit trade regulations and aims to enhance border security while aligning with existing requirements for non-EU imports.

The new regulations mean that businesses importing goods from the EU must submit ENS filings before arrival in Great Britain, a procedure that was not previously mandated for EU shipments. The ENS provides customs authorities with advance cargo information, allowing for risk assessments to be conducted before goods reach UK ports. The measure is part of the UK’s wider Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), designed to implement more effective and streamlined customs processes.

Businesses that already submit ENS declarations for non-EU imports will not need to alter their existing procedures. However, from January 2025, they will have the option to utilize a simplified dataset, potentially reducing administrative burdens.

The move is expected to impact a wide range of sectors, including retail, manufacturing, and logistics, as businesses adjust to the new compliance requirements. Companies engaged in EU-UK trade should begin preparing for these changes by reviewing their current import documentation processes and ensuring they have the necessary systems in place to comply with ENS requirements.

Failure to submit the required declarations could result in delays at the border, additional costs, and potential fines. As such, industry experts recommend that businesses work closely with customs brokers and logistics providers to navigate the transition smoothly.

For further details on the new import requirements, businesses are advised to consult official HMRC guidance at the official HMRC website and seek professional advice where necessary.