The consequences of Brexit have undoubtedly unsettled Irish exporters, as they face a wave of changes and challenges in their trade with Great Britain. With the implementation of new regulations, including customs declarations and pre-notification requirements for agricultural-food exports, exporters must adapt quickly to remain competitive in this evolving landscape.
Furthermore, the potential requirement for Export Health Certificates for certain agricultural-food products adds another layer of complexity.
As we approach the 31st January deadline, the level of preparedness across industries remains uncertain, leaving many wondering if they are truly ready for the major changes ahead.
New Post-Brexit Rules for Irish Exporters
The introduction of new post-Brexit rules has brought significant changes for Irish exporters sending goods to Great Britain. As of 31st January 2024, customs declarations and pre-notification of agri-food exports are now required for goods going to Great Britain. Additionally, certain agri-food products may also require Export Health Certificates.
It is crucial for Irish exporters, UK importers, businesses, and hauliers to ensure their staff are aware of their roles in implementing these changes. The impact of these rules on businesses and the level of preparedness remains uncertain.
In case exporters are not prepared, contingency plans are in place to manage traffic at Dublin port. It is important for small businesses and non-regular exporters to be prepared for the introduction of full customs controls for goods from Ireland.
However, it is worth noting that goods from Northern Ireland and Irish goods processed in Northern Ireland are not affected by these changes.
Full Customs Controls for Goods From Ireland would be “Full Customs Controls for Goods From Ireland.”
With the introduction of new post-Brexit rules for Irish exporters, the focus now shifts to the implementation of full customs controls for goods from Ireland. Starting from 31st January 2024, all goods from Ireland will be subject to customs controls when entering Great Britain. This requirement has already been in place for other EU goods since January 2022.
The introduction of full customs controls marks a significant change in trading for Irish exporters. It is crucial for small businesses and non-regular exporters to be prepared for these changes. However, it is important to note that goods from Northern Ireland and Irish goods processed in Northern Ireland will not be affected by these new requirements.
Irish exporters must ensure that they are aware of the necessary procedures and documentation to comply with the full customs controls.
Pre-Notification and Export Health Certificates for Agri-Food Products
Agri-food exporters to Great Britain must comply with pre-notification and obtain Export Health Certificates for their products. Pre-notification is required for all agri-food products destined for Great Britain, regardless of their risk category.
Export Health Certificates, on the other hand, may be necessary for medium-risk and high-risk agri-food products. These certificates are issued by authorities such as the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine. It is crucial for exporters to check the risk category of their products to determine if a certificate is required.
However, low-risk products still need to be pre-notified, but they do not require an Export Health Certificate. Additionally, exporters must be registered on the EU Traces system, as this system is necessary for applying for Export Health Certificates.
Registration on the EU Traces System
To ensure compliance with the new post-Brexit regulations, exporters of agri-food products to Great Britain must be registered on the EU Traces system.
The EU Traces system is a requirement for applying for Export Health Certificates for Irish agri-food products. Registration on the EU Traces system is necessary to apply for these certificates, which may be necessary for certain medium-risk and high-risk agri-food products.
It is important for exporters to check the risk category of their products to determine if an Export Health Certificate is required. However, it is worth noting that products going from Northern Ireland and Irish goods processed in Northern Ireland before being sent to Great Britain are not affected by these changes.
Therefore, it is crucial for exporters to complete the registration process to ensure smooth trade with Great Britain post-Brexit.
Recommendations for Businesses and Future Change
Businesses should take proactive measures to prepare for the upcoming changes in post-Brexit regulations and implement the recommended recommendations to ensure smooth trade with Great Britain.
To navigate the new requirements, it is crucial for businesses to pre-notify their agri-food products between 30 days and 24 hours prior to travel. Additionally, exporters must ensure that their lorries arriving at ports are equipped with the necessary Export Health Certificates. Failure to comply may result in lorries being turned away and sent back to base.
It is also recommended that businesses submit customs declarations well in advance to avoid any delays or complications. Furthermore, it is important to note that the UK Government plans to introduce further post-Brexit checks this year, making it even more crucial for businesses to stay informed and prepared.
With over one third of Irish exports going to the UK, it is imperative for businesses to adapt and adjust to the new regulations to maintain a strong presence in this important market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the aftermath of Brexit has brought significant changes for Irish exporters, particularly in their trade with Great Britain. New regulations require customs declarations and pre-notification of agri-food exports, along with the potential need for Export Health Certificates. It is crucial for businesses and personnel involved in these industries to fully comprehend their roles in implementing these modifications.
Whilst the impact on businesses and preparedness levels remain uncertain, it is important for small businesses and non-regular exporters to prepare for these changes in trading procedures.
