Further delay to elements of the Border Operating Model

09/05/22

The UK government decided to further postpone the next phase of the Border Operating Model (BOM) to at least the end of 2023, which means no additional import controls for goods originating from the EU will be introduced this year. It was indicated that further clarification on any new controls will follow this Autumn.

What does this mean for your business?

No further import controls on EU goods will be introduced this year, which means businesses no longer have to rush to be ready before July 1 of this year. The UK government plans to introduce a Target Operating Model (TOM) this Autumn, which will contain the new regime of border import controls. This system will replace the current BOM and is stated to be introduced at the end of 2023.
The following controls which were planned for introduction from July 1 of this year will not be introduced:

A requirement for further Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) checks at Border Control Post (BCP) and not at destination;
A requirement for Safety and Security Statements (ENS);
A requirement for further health certification and SPS checks for EU imports;
Prohibitions and restrictions on the import of chilled meats from the EU.

The full customs declaration and border controls that were introduced as of 1 January 2022 will remain in effect.

How can we help?

Even though the end of 2023 seems far away, it is advised to monitor these developments closely and act now to determine whether and in what form your company will/can be affected. In this respect, PwC can assist with determining which documents/registration/authorization are required for your goods and which authorities should be contacted to obtain these. Additionally, we can assist with the registration/completing of documents while setting up a process to ensure compliance and avoid delays.