The Windsor Framework - New trade regulations for Northern Ireland and Great Britain
With the Windsor Framework, the European Union and the United Kingdom have created a new basis for the trade in goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The agreement, which was presented in February 2023, replaces the previous Northern Ireland Protocol and is intended to reduce barriers to trade without jeopardising the integrity of the EU single market. A key innovation is the dual-track system for the movement of goods. A ‘green corridor’ enables simplified procedures for products that remain in Northern Ireland, while a ‘red corridor’ is provided for goods that are transported further into the EU and are subject to the usual customs and health checks. Companies must be fully converted to the new regulations by 31 March 2025.
Implications for trade
The Windsor Framework brings significant changes for companies in the EU and Great Britain. Goods that are delivered from Great Britain to Northern Ireland and consumed there will be subject to fewer bureaucratic hurdles in future. The green corridor significantly reduces the administrative burden and facilitates trade within the UK. At the same time, the previous inspection mechanisms will remain in place for exports to the EU, meaning that traders will still have to fulfil the relevant documentation and customs requirements. Whilst the new arrangements will have a positive impact for businesses in Northern Ireland, for UK businesses this means a continued separation between the Northern Ireland market and the rest of the UK.
Implementation at Mercoline and its transport service providers
For Mercoline GmbH, the Windsor Framework requires an adaptation of the existing delivery processes, as the cooperation with some transport service providers requires adjustments. For example, harmonised customs tariff numbers and goods descriptions at item level have already been implemented in M.TransportCommunicator. To ensure the smooth movement of goods, Mercoline will utilise modern IT solutions to ensure compliance with the new trade regulations. This will keep the flow of goods efficient and compliant - a crucial factor for companies operating in the UK and European markets.