On the 24th of October, HMRC released new guidance on the movement of steel, particularly affecting traders moving steel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. This guidance clarifies that steel imports falling within certain categories can continue without additional safeguard charges, provided the relevant quotas are open.
Under the Windsor Framework, new quotas for UK-origin steel moving from GB to NI have been in effect since the 1st of January 2024, covering categories 7, 8, 9, 13, 17, 25A, and 28. This arrangement allows traders to make quota claims, which - when successfully submitted via Full or Simplified Frontier Declarations - permit duty-free imports up to a specified limit. Beyond this limit, however, a safeguard duty of 25% applies. Missing the submission deadline for these declarations may result in additional duty charges. If traders’ quota claims aren’t successful, they can recover duties using the Duty Reimbursement Scheme or Customs Duty Waiver Scheme, which allows them to recoup any excess charges.
Quota Adjustments for Category 1 Steel
Further changes have been made to Category 1 steel (non-alloy and other alloy hot-rolled sheet and strip), with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade approving modifications to the quota structure. The existing Category 1 quota has been divided into two parts:
Category 1A: Reserved for commercial applications and retains its current quota levels.
Category 1B: A new, globally capped quota at 40% per exporting country, designated specifically for steel used in downstream processing.
This quota structure for Category 1 steel, effective as of the 1st of October 2024, will remain in place until the safeguard measure expires on the 30th of June 2026. For more details on submitting quota claims and understanding customs processes, traders can refer to “The Steel Notice” on the GOV.UK website.
Notification of Intrastat Declarations due date
HMRC has reminded traders that Intrastat declarations for October 2024 are due on 21st November and encourage traders to submit data before its deadline to avoid potential financial penalties for late, missing, incomplete or inaccurate submissions. (Intrastat reporting are due by the 21st of the month after the reference period)
For more information, please check Notice 60: Intrastat general guide
Need help?
Understanding steel quotas, customs documentation, and duty requirements can challenging. Let us help you avoid costly mistakes or compliance penalties with expert advice tailored to your business.
Our experienced team, supported by a trusted network of associates, approved suppliers, and strategic partners, works with traders of all sizes and sectors to ensure they stay compliant with customs regulations. We offer services both virtually and at your premises, including:
Customs Compliance Audit: A thorough review to help you prepare for HMRC Customs Audits and identify any areas of concern.
Tariff Classification Review: Guidance on commodity codes to make sure your goods are classified correctly, avoiding errors and delays in customs processing.
If you need support with any aspect of customs or trade, we’re here to help. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert team at international@gmchamber.co.uk.
Source: The Steel Notice on GOV.UK, TSS, HMRC
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