GOVERNMENT UPDATE: New border controls in the UK

The UK government has released its Border Target Operating Model, which details additional customs regulations for imports into the country. Processes will be altered, affecting businesses that import products.

Important Dates:

• 31st Jan 2024 – Health certifications are required for some EU imports. Some Northern Ireland/Ireland supplies require prior notice.
• 30th April 2024 – Documentary inspections on EU imports of medium-risk items begin on 30th April, 2024. Some non-EU import rules have been relaxed.
• 31st October 2024 – Imports into the EU must include safety and security statements. Data needs have been reduced.
• From 31st October 2024 – Physical inspections for EU goods will be implemented at UK west coast ports from October 31, 2024.

These reforms attempt to strike a compromise between biosecurity and customs regulations, as well as trade facilitation. The new UK Single Trade Window will facilitate digital transactions.

If you have any concerns or questions regarding how these changes may affect your supply chain or imports, please contact us at

T: +44 (0)1753 684320 or E: london@ifeglobal.uk

The whole Border Target Operating Model paper is available at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-border-target-operating-model-august-2023.