By Richard Allenby, Carnival and Customs Compliance Manager, Meachers Global Logistics
The UK Government’s 2025 Trade Strategy outlines a forward-looking plan to support British businesses in global trade. Chapter 4, “Supporting Business to Trade and Grow,” highlights key reforms that aim to modernise customs systems, reduce administrative burdens, and strengthen collaboration with industry. At Meachers Global Logistics, we believe these changes could significantly enhance the trading environment for UK businesses and improve the way goods move across borders.
Investing in HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service (CDS)
The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is the digital backbone of UK customs processing. The government’s renewed investment in CDS is a vital step toward improving efficiency and reliability at the borders. As the replacement for the legacy CHIEF system, CDS is designed to handle the complexities of post-Brexit trade.
For logistics providers like Meachers, a robust CDS means fewer delays and smoother operations. Continued development of the platform will help ensure it meets the evolving needs of traders and intermediaries.
Improving Border Services and Reducing Business Burdens
The strategy emphasises the importance of better integration across HMRC systems. This includes:
- Enhancing services at the borders to reduce business burdens while maintaining compliance
- Tailoring support to traders’ specific needs to simplify customs processes
These improvements will help logistics providers deliver faster, more cost-effective services. For SMEs, which often face challenges navigating international trade, this could be particularly beneficial.
Mutual Recognition Arrangements for Authorised Economic Operators (AEOs)
The UK is negotiating a programme of mutual recognition arrangements (MRAs) for Authorised Economic Operators. These agreements aim to reduce customs requirements for trusted traders, streamlining documentation and accelerating clearance times.
Businesses that achieve AEO status will gain a competitive edge in global markets. Meachers is ready to support clients in understanding and securing AEO certification to unlock these benefits and move goods more efficiently across international borders.
Establishing a Voluntary Standard for Customs Intermediaries
To raise standards across the sector, the government plans to co-design a voluntary code of best practice for customs intermediaries. This initiative will promote professionalism, consistency, and trust in the customs process.
As a long-standing customs intermediary, Meachers welcomes this move. We look forward to contributing to the development of the standard and helping shape a more reliable customs ecosystem.
Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement with the EU
A key highlight of the strategy is the UK’s commitment to securing a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement with the EU. This would reduce checks and paperwork on agrifood products, making trade in perishable goods cheaper and easier.
For clients in the food and drink sector, this agreement could be transformative. It would lower costs, improve shelf life, and restore confidence in EU-UK supply chains.
The Status of the Single Trade Window
Although the Single Trade Window has been deprioritised under the current government, the strategy still recognises the importance of digitalisation. Initiatives like the Digital Trade Corridors and the Electronic Trade Documents Act are paving the way for a more connected, paperless border.
Meachers believes the long-term vision of a single digital gateway remains essential. A fully integrated system would reduce duplication, streamline compliance, and make the UK a more attractive place to do business.
What These Reforms Mean for UK Logistics Providers
The UK’s Trade Strategy signals a shift toward practical, business-led reform of the border. For logistics providers and exporters, this is a welcome change. At Meachers, we’re committed to helping our clients navigate these developments and seize the opportunities they present.
Whether it’s understanding new customs standards, preparing for SPS reforms, or exploring the benefits of AEO status, we’re here to help. If you’d like to learn more about how these reforms could affect your supply chain, or how Meachers can help you stay ahead, get in touch with our team today.
