In this week’s EU exit corner, we bring you the latest guidance updates and publications relevant to EU exit. The most recent Trader Support Service bulletin is also available. The House of Lords Sub-Committee on the Windsor Framework (“WF”) has opened a new inquiry which is examining strengthening Northern Ireland’s voice in the context of the WF and the Committee has also raised concerns about the future supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland. HMRC has also issued a reminder that there are now just a few weeks until the 4 June deadline for making export declarations via the Customs Declarations Service (“CDS”) instead of CHIEF.
Future supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland
The Committee recently concluded its inquiry into the potential consequences of the EU Veterinary Medicinal Products Regulation taking effect in Northern Ireland at the end of December 2025, when the grace period is due to end.
Witnesses who appeared in front of the Committee are concerned about the additional costs this would entail for producers and have provided evidence that this could affect the economic viability of supplying the small Northern Ireland market with estimates suggesting that over 30 percent of veterinary medicines could be discontinued for Northern Ireland under the rules.
The Committee is also highlighting the link between animal and human health. Serious concerns have been raised about the potential consequences for public health in Northern Ireland and on the island of Ireland if access to certain veterinary medicines is lost.
The Chair of the Sub-Committee, said, “We are stressing the need for a positive and swift outcome within what is a tight timescale complicated by upcoming elections in the EU and UK.”
Exports to move to CDS by 4 June
A reminder Press Release was published last week reminding businesses that by 4 June, all export declarations must be made via the CDS. Traders can register for CDS via GOV.UK. The 4 June deadline has been moved several times.
According to the Press Release, the CDS provides businesses with a more user-friendly, streamlined system with greater functionality. It has been running since 2018 for import declarations and more than 117 million customs declarations have already been submitted through CDS.
HMRC is working closely with the border industry and directly contacting all declarants and traders to urge them to access the available support now and transfer over to CDS.
Businesses with customs agents should ensure their agent is ready to use CDS. Those without a customs agent must prepare to make their own declarations using software that works with the system.
Miscellaneous updated guidance etc.
Recently updated guidance and publications relevant to EU exit are set out below:
LOADING...