BIFA CALLS FOR INPUT ON VOLUNTARY STANDARD FOR CUSTOMS INTERMEDIARIES
On 6 June, BIFA (British International Freight Association) urged its corporate members to actively engage in a government consultation that explores the possibility of implementing a voluntary standard for customs intermediaries. The decision to conduct the survey stems from a previous government review, which highlighted the challenge for traders in identifying reputable intermediaries.
BIFA emphasised the significance of customs intermediaries by highlighting UK customs statistics that revealed 78% of international trade customs declarations in 2022 were handled by third parties. Additionally, 99% of traders relied solely on intermediaries for their trade declarations. The consultation aims to address this by exploring the introduction of a voluntary standard, aiming to enhance industry standards across the board. Currently, there are no formal accreditation or qualification requirements for intermediaries in the UK. BIFA is interested in observing the impact of the consultation on the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme, should a voluntary standard be established.
Steve Parker, Director General at BIFA, expressed BIFA’s willingness to collaborate with the government, offering insights from companies that have navigated trade challenges arising from the UK's departure from the EU and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on supply chains.
More information on the consultation can be found here.
Source: BIFA