International November Briefing

TRADE

CDS switch over

The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) will be the long-term replacement for the current CHIEF (Customs Handling Imports and Export Freight) platform, replacing a system based on paperwork with a digital platform.

CHIEF closed its e-doors for import declarations on 30th September 2022. The final closure for export declarations will be on the 30th of March 2024.

The Border Target Operating Model (BTOM): August 2023

The final Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) sets out a new approach to security controls (applying to all imports), and sanitary and phytosanitary controls (applying to imports of live animals, animal products, plants and plants products) at the border.

GLOBAL TRADE

UK-Turkey new trade agreement

A ‘Call for Input’ from businesses and the wider public seeking views on UK negotiation objectives for a new, modernised free trade agreement (FTA) with Turkey. Trade between the two countries reached £23.5 billion in 2022, making Turkey a top 20 trading partner for the UK.

The UK and Turkey have an existing FTA which is based on outdated provisions from the 1990s negotiated when the UK was a member of the EU, and only covers goods. The ‘Call for Input’ will give businesses, organisations, and individuals the opportunity to shape the UK’s negotiating aims ahead of talks and ensure the updated trade deal is tailored to the strengths and priorities of British businesses.

UK-Chile - MoU on co-operation in global health

Memorandum of understanding (MoU) on co-operation in global health between the UK government and the Government of the Republic of Chile.

This memorandum of understanding (MoU) builds on the relationship between Chile and the UK in the fields of health and science. The primary aim is to share experiences of healthcare policy in order to improve health outcomes in both Chile and the UK and to collaborate effectively on global health issues such as pandemics and tackling climate change. Its signature on 23 May 2023 coincided with the anniversary of 200 years of Chile-UK consular relations.

Trade and Investment Factsheet

Trade and Investment factsheets provide a snapshot of the UK’s trade and investment positions with individual trading and investment partners overseas. These factsheets summarise the latest statistics on trade and investment between the UK and individual overseas partners.

Department for Business and Trade – Big in America

Department for Business and Trade’s, Big in America has produced a guide to exporting to the USA. It contains useful information, including an overview of the wide-ranging opportunities, sector focused insights and details of the support available. Download the guide here.