On 1st January 2022, new customs arrangements will be introduced on imports from the EU. Companies will no longer be able to delay making import customs declarations for EU goods, and will instead have to make declarations and pay relevant tariffs at the point of import. Notice of imports of food, drink and products of animal origin will also be needed to be given in advance.

In a poll of nearly 600 business leaders by the Institute of Directors, 30% of relevant businesses described themselves as “not at all prepared” for these changes.

Kitty Ussher, Chief Economist at the Institute of Directors, said:

“In under 3 weeks’ time, significant changes to our customs arrangements are going to be introduced, for which a large portion of businesses are either unprepared or simply unaware. This will exacerbate existing supply chain problems, leading to further congestion at ports, as well as extra costs from accidental non-compliance for many businesses.

“Government needs to ramp up an awareness and advertising campaign around these changes, simplifying the guidance, so that all importing businesses feel confident they know how to keep supplies flowing into the new year.”