As the United Kingdom faces the complexities of post-Brexit trade, Logistics UK, representing over 20,000 businesses, emphasizes the crucial need for the government to integrate the experience and insights of the logistics industry in its imminent Trade Strategy. This call for action is particularly pertinent as the final phase of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) takes effect on January 31, necessitating Safety and Security Declarations (SSD) for EU imports to Great Britain.
Learning from Past Challenges
Over the past year, the introduction of new border controls has been fraught with challenges, including frequent deadline changes and significant ambiguity regarding the new procedures. Nichola Mallon, head of Trade and Devolved Policy at Logistics UK, urges the government to learn from these previous experiences while developing the upcoming Trade Strategy. Mallon stresses the need for robust engagement with the logistics sector, which has critical expertise in identifying trade barriers and formulating solutions to enhance and streamline trade processes.
Instilling Confidence in the Sector
The logistics sector plays a pivotal role in redefining the UK’s trade relationship with the EU. Current strategies need to instill confidence within this sector by ensuring pragmatic trade solutions are in place. As Europe remains the UK’s closest and largest trading partner, there is substantial potential for businesses to drive economic growth through a more efficient and streamlined trading process. Logistics UK advocates for an evolved trading relationship that minimizes friction and includes negotiating a comprehensive veterinary agreement to simplify export and import procedures for animal and plant goods while maintaining food safety standards.
Practical Recommendations
Logistics UK’s recommendations are informed by the collective insights of member organizations actively engaged in exporting and importing vital goods. The group stresses the urgency for the UK government to collaborate closely with the EU on customs and border policies to ease the flow of trade. They propose pragmatic solutions for the forthcoming EU Entry and Exit System (EES) and call for an extensive review of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement to yield mutual economic benefits.
Moving Forward
As the United Kingdom navigates the intricacies of post-Brexit trade, Logistics UK underscores the urgent necessity for the government to incorporate the logistics industry’s expertise in its forthcoming Trade Strategy. This appeal gains particular significance as the final phase of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) takes effect on January 31, which will require Safety and Security Declarations (SSD) for imports from the European Union to Great Britain. Logistics UK stresses that the input from industry professionals, who have firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities presented by post-Brexit trade, is essential for shaping an effective and comprehensive Trade Strategy. By including the logistics sector’s insights, the government can better address potential issues and create a smoother transition for businesses adapting to the new trade regulations. This collaboration is vital for ensuring that the UK’s trade strategy is well-informed and capable of supporting economic stability and growth in a post-Brexit landscape.
