Background: The UK’s post-Brexit border strategy
Following the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union in 2021, the UK government needed to establish its own border control system – a task critical to maintaining national security and smooth trade operations. In response to this new challenge, the UK Government published the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) in April 2023.
The Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) is a set of measures introduced to help better manage imports entering Great Britain from the rest of the world. The model aims to strike a delicate balance between the need for robust, effective border controls and the goal to support businesses with simplified import processes. It outlines a new approach to Safety and Security for all imports and Sanitary and Phytosanitary controls for plant and animal-specific products that will better protect the UK population and environment.
Key features of the Border Target Operating Model
The Border Target Operating Model introduces several key improvements to UK border controls, including:
- Simplification: BTOM aims to reduce the complexity of import procedures, making it easier for businesses to comply with regulations, and reducing the likelihood of errors and delays. This includes simplifying paperwork, harmonizing processes across different types of goods, and creating clearer guidelines for importers.
- Digitalization: The model embraces digital solutions to automate and expedite border processes, replacing paper-based systems with electronic documentation and declarations. Automation of certain checks and risk assessments will also be implemented to speed up clearance times.
- UK Single Trade Window: This new platform will be a centralized hub for all trade-related activities so traders can submit all necessary import data and documentation. The platform will integrate various government agencies and departments involved in border control, creating a more cohesive system.
It’s important to note that the BTOM is not an isolated initiative but a part of a broader policy framework that integrates the technological transformations outlined in the 2025 UK Border Strategy, which envisions a modern, efficient, and secure border system that leverages cutting-edge technology and streamlined processes.
The UK Single Trade Window: A game-changer for traders
When fully operational, the UK Single Trade Window will revolutionize how businesses interact with border agencies. This digital platform will serve as a single digital gateway for users to provide:
- A one-stop -shop for data entry for all trade-related information
- Streamlined application process for licenses and authorizations
- Access to trusted trader schemes
- Reduced paperwork and administrative burden
BTOM: Implementation timeline and key milestones
There are three major milestones in the phased implementation of the new Safety and Security model, and Sanitary and Phytosanitary controls.
- January 31, 2024: The introduction of health certifications added as a requirement for imports of medium-risk animal products and high-risk food and feed of non-animal origin from the EU.
- April 30, 2024: The introduction of documentary and risk-based checks for medium-risk products from the EU, relocation of high-risk plant inspections to Border Control Posts, and simplification of some non-EU imports.
- October 31, 2024: This crucial deadline will require traders to submit Safety and Security declarations for all imports into Great Britain, including those from the European Union. Importers and traders should prepare well in advance to ensure compliance with this new requirement.
What is the new Safety Security Model?
The revised Safety and Security model is a crucial component under the BTOM, designed to minimize the burden on traders while maintaining high border security and remaining aligned with international standards. Key features of the new model include:
- Reduced data requirements: The new model reduces the required Safety and Security data fields from the current 37-field dataset down to 20, with some conditional data fields that may be necessary in certain scenarios.
- Streamlined data submission: The UK Single Trade Window will provide a user-friendly digital interface for submitting all necessary trade data, including Safety and Security declarations.
- Efficient data utilization: By eliminating data duplication, the UK government can process information more efficiently, leading to faster clearances and reduced administrative overhead.
- Exemptions: certain categories of goods will be exempt from the safety and Security Requirements, further simplifying the process for specific types of imports.
Northern Ireland: Special considerations
Under the BTOM, qualifying goods moving from the UK to Northern Ireland will be subject to the arrangements set out in the Windsor Framework. While imports into Northern Ireland from the EU will be subject to the additional checks and controls outlined in BTOM, this approach aims to maintain Northern Ireland’s full access to the EU market.
A notable feature of this arrangement is the introduction of the Green and Red lanes at Northern Ireland ports. Goods sold in Northern Ireland will use the “green lane”, where there are minimal checks. Meanwhile, goods traveling further will be subject to more in-depth checks and documentation requirements. This system is designed to protect the UK’s internal market while facilitating smooth trade flows.
E2open can help ensure customs compliance
The implementation of the Border Target Operating Model marks a significant shift in border controls and trade regulations. For businesses engaged in international commerce, maintaining customs compliance will be key to ensuring the efficient movement of goods across borders.
At e2open, we understand the complexities of global trade and customs compliance. Our extensive experience and expertise position us as an ideal partner to help businesses navigate these customs modernizations effectively.
Our solutions are designed to help traders, importers, and forwarders clear goods at borders efficiently and compliantly. We stay abreast of the ever-changing compliance landscape and align our offerings with the evolving business needs of our customers.
E2open’s role extends beyond just software provision – we act as a co-pilot, guiding our clients through the transition of new customs IT systems and regulations. Our customs filing solutions are comprehensive, covering not only the UK’s new requirements but also other critical systems such as the EUS’ Import Control System (ICS2)
More information on ICS2 can be found here https://www.e2open.com/blog/eus-game-changing-ics2-regulation-are-you-charting-for-success/
To learn more about how e2open can help your company ensure compliance, and reduce clearance delays and costs with an automated Customs Filing solution, please contact us today.
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