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Challenges in GB-NI trade

Following Brexit, the Northern Ireland Protocol was established to define the new relationship between Northern Ireland, the EU, and Great Britain. The Protocol kept Northern Ireland outside the EU single market, yet allowed free movement of goods under EU customs rules, effectively creating a customs border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. This arrangement has led to increased bureaucracy and checks on goods moving across the Irish Sea, impacting business efficiency and raising concerns about the economic unity of the UK.

Introducing the Windsor Framework Green Lane update

To address these trade challenges, the UK government has been implementing the Windsor Framework's Green Lane system in phases. In essence, the Framework creates two distinct flows of goods: a "green lane" for goods destined for Northern Ireland (within the UK) and a "red lane" for goods heading to the EU (Ireland). The green lane exempts goods from customs checks at the border, while Northern Ireland remains part of the European internal market with reduced checks. In exchange, the EU receives digital information on trade flows.

Key changes coming in September 2024

The September 2024 update will introduce several important changes:

• Reduced customs requirements: Goods from Great Britain, destined for Northern Ireland, will no longer be subject to international customs requirements or customs checks, except under a risk-based approach.

• Simplified declarations: Traders will no longer need to complete supplementary declarations.

• New data system: The system will rely on commercial information, which can be provided via the Trader Support System (TSS) or through a trader's chosen agent.

• Consignment movement updates: New data-sharing requirements will come into effect for the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, ensuring that customs declarations are no longer necessary for deliveries.

Benefits of the Green Lane update

The enhanced Green Lane system is designed to:

• Streamline trade processes between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

• Reduce administrative burden for businesses

• Maintain the integrity of the UK's internal market while respecting EU single market rules

How can you prepare?

• Register for UKIMS: Ensure your business is authorised under the UK Internal Market System to access the green lane.
• Understand Your Lane: Non-UKIMS goods will default to the "red lane" with full EU requirements.
• Review Special Categories:
  1. Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) goods may need additional steps
  2. Agrifood retail goods can use the Retail Movement Scheme (ReMoS)
  3. Goods for processing in NI have specific "not at risk" declaration requirements
• Consider Alternative Arrangements: Other options like Entry in the Declarant's Records (EIDR) may suit your needs
• Prepare Your Goods Profile: A unique profile will replace individual commodity codes:
  1. Existing UK Trader Scheme (UKTS) traders will receive a pre-populated profile
  2. New traders can create profiles through a designated process
  3. Maintain and update your profile regularly

Data management and security

The new system will rely on commercial information provided through the Trader Support System (TSS) or authorised agents. While this streamlines the process, it also requires businesses to maintain accurate and up-to-date information. The UK government has assured that data protection measures will be in place to safeguard sensitive commercial information. However, businesses must ensure their data is accurate and current to avoid any issues with the new system.

More information on the Windsor Framework Green Lane update

For more detailed information, consult the following resources:

• UK Government guidance on the Windsor Framework
• Applying for UKIMS authorization
• The Green Lane explained