In a troubling scenario, UK authorities have revealed that importers are resorting to deliberate errors on customs forms to evade post-Brexit border charges. The ineffective border check system is pushing businesses into these drastic measures, exacerbating delays and operational inefficiencies.
A spokesperson from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) disclosed, "We've identified a pattern where importers are deliberately providing incorrect information on their paperwork to avoid paying the required duties. This not only undermines the UK's border security but also puts compliant businesses at a disadvantage." The new border checks, introduced to enhance biosecurity, have proven to be cumbersome and costly, leading to significant disruptions.
In a notice sent out to traders this week, the government said it had been made aware that some traders and logistics companies were repeatedly filling out forms incorrectly, and vowed to crack down on the behaviour. It comes just weeks after the government brought in new checks for plant and animal goods coming into Britain from the EU.
The new rules, which took effect on 30 April, require certain products to be checked at border posts across the country, with importers charged at varying rates depending on the type of product they bring in.
However, the government has said that some businesses are failing to adhere to the rules and are making “continuous and/or deliberate” errors, seemingly to avoid checks and additional import costs.
Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium, has been vocal about the impact on the industry. "The ongoing delays caused by the new border checks are severely affecting the supply chain. Our research shows that fresh produce is particularly vulnerable, with some shipments facing delays of up to 48 hours, leading to significant losses." Jenney stated.
The ineffective system has led to operational mismatches, particularly with the timing of inspections. Jenney pointed out that commercial facilities for inspections close at 7pm, missing the critical window when 95% of consignments arrive. This forces vehicles to either wait until the next day or incur steep fees by diverting to government facilities, such as Shevington, where charges can reach £5,000 per consignment.
Jenney has described the government's approach as "obscenely expensive" and "highly bureaucratic," warning that it risks making the UK the "laughing stock of Europe". He further criticised the new system for its lack of efficiency and the exorbitant costs imposed on businesses.
"The Government has single-handedly created the world’s most inefficient and expensive border. This will drive up costs for our sector, which will ultimately be passed on to consumers already struggling with the rising cost of living," Jenney remarked.
Despite the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) initiating pilot programmes to explore alternative inspection methods using new technology and business data, Jenney remains sceptical. "These might address some issues, but they are at least a year away, and we need solutions today," he emphasised.
As the UK navigates its post-Brexit trade landscape, the government's ineffective border checks are forcing importers into drastic measures, highlighting the urgent need for a more efficient and cost-effective system. The current situation underscores the challenges ahead in maintaining a fair and secure trading environment amidst growing concerns over border check delays.