UK government rules out extension of Brexit transition period
Industry body Leather UK has issued a statement following confirmation from the UK government that there will be no extension to the one-year transition period for leaving the European Union.
Formally, the UK left the European Union on January 31 this year, but both parties agreed to let the existing trading set-up stay in place for a transition period lasting until the end of 2020.
Following the lockdown of economies on both sides of the English Channel as a result of the covid-19 pandemic, there was wide speculation that this transition period might be extended, but the UK government confirmed on June 12 that it would neither seek nor accept any extension. This increases the possibility of the UK moving forward without a trade agreement with neighbouring countries.
Leather UK said border controls for imported EU goods would come in next year, but explained that this will happen in three stages to give businesses more time to prepare.
From January 2021, traders importing standard goods will need to prepare for basic customs requirements such as keeping sufficient records of imported goods. They will have up to six months to complete customs declarations. While tariffs will need to be paid on all imports, payments can be deferred until the customs declaration has been made.
In addition, from April 2021, all products of animal origin and all regulated plants and plant products will require pre-notification and the relevant health documentation.
From July 2021, traders moving all goods will have to make declarations at the point of importation and pay relevant tariffs.
