UK BORDER TARGET OPERATING MODEL (BTOM):
Are you ready for the changes coming to UK imports in 2024? The Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) is set to reshape the landscape of trade, and comprehending its implications is crucial for businesses as they adapt to the evolving import environment. Let’s delve into what the BTOM entails and how it will impact trade.
BTOM FAQs
What is the BTOM?
The BTOM is a comprehensive framework designed to streamline and regulate imports into Great Britain (GB). It encompasses various policies and procedures aimed at facilitating trade while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and security measures.
Who will the BTOM apply to? What about Northern Ireland?
The BTOM will apply to certain goods imports to GB, including those from Ireland, the EU, and the rest of the world. However, Northern Ireland operates under the Windsor Framework, which governs its trade relationship with both GB and the EU, providing unique arrangements to facilitate smooth movement of goods.
To check your specific goods, visit the HMRC website here: http://surl.li/svszb
What products does it impact?
The BTOM will impact a wide range of products, particularly those subject to sanitary and phyto-sanitary (SPS) regulations. This includes meat, dairy, fish, high-risk food/feed from non-animal origin, and other agricultural products. Importers and exporters dealing with these goods must prepare for heightened scrutiny and additional documentation requirements.
When is the BTOM happening?
The BTOM implementation is staggered, with key milestones set for various dates in 2024. Health certification for certain products will be required from January 31, followed by physical checks on selected goods from April 30. Safety and security declarations for EU imports will become mandatory from October 31, marking a significant shift in import control procedures.
Prepare your business for the new import controls:
As the deadline for BTOM implementation approaches, businesses must proactively prepare to comply with the new import controls. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:
- 31 January 2024: Health certification
Importers of medium-risk animal products and plant-based products from the EU, including Ireland, will need to obtain export health certificates to ensure compliance with SPS regulations.
- 30 April 2024: Physical checks
Documentary and risk-based identity and physical checks will be introduced on medium-risk animal products, plants, plant products, and high-risk food and feed of non-animal origin from the EU. This marks a significant shift towards more stringent import inspection procedures.
- 31 October 2024: Safety and Security declarations
Safety and security declarations for EU imports will be mandatory, alongside a reduced dataset for imports. Utilizing the UK Single Trade Window will streamline the declaration process and minimize duplication.
What is a border control post (BCP)?
A Border Control Post (BCP) is a designated facility where customs and regulatory checks are conducted on goods entering a country. These posts ensure that imported goods comply with relevant standards, regulations, and safety measures before they are allowed to enter the country’s territory.
Here check the Designated Border Control Post (BCPs), click here.
How will the Border Target Operating Model impact trade?
The BTOM’s implementation will undoubtedly impact trade dynamics, introducing new compliance requirements and potentially causing disruptions to supply chains. Businesses must adapt to the changing import landscape by investing in robust compliance mechanisms, enhancing supply chain resilience, and staying abreast of regulatory developments to navigate the evolving trade environment effectively.
To sum up, the BTOM represents a significant turning point in the UK’s trade policy landscape, ushering in a new era of import controls and regulatory oversight. Customs Complete can help you with understanding its implications and taking proactive measures to prepare for the changes ahead, helping your business to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the post-BTOM era.
