The departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union (EU), commonly referred to as Brexit is looming and Maersk is prepared for it, says a press release published on their website.
Ongoing Brexit discussions
This was the result of the referendum held on June 2016. Having granted an initial extension until 12th April 2019 – EU leaders have backed a six-month extension until 31st October 2019.
However, should the withdrawal agreement be ratified by the UK and the EU at any point before that date, the United Kingdom could potentially leave the bloc earlier. For Brexit to be canceled altogether, a change in the law in the UK is required, for which there has not been sufficient support in the British Parliament. Finally, another Brexit extension is still legally possible, if all EU countries, including the UK, agree to it. Up to date, there has been no decisive further progress in Brexit discussions in the UK to indicate the final outcome and the future scenario.
Maersk embraces for Brexit
At Maersk, we are prepared for various Brexit outcomes, both from processes and IT systems perspective. These scenarios include a “No-Deal” option, any potential further exit deadline extension, as well as special Norway-style agreement with the EU (where Norway is subject to some EU rules and regulations, without legally being part of the bloc).
What does a “No-Deal” Brexit scenario mean for business?
Such departure from the EU will mean that the UK will no longer be subject to trade agreements between the EU and foreign countries and that trade between the UK and those countries will be subject to general rules of the World Trade Organisation, in case there are no other bilateral trade agreements in place. This will have an impact on duties or tariffs, customs and many other procedures related to moving goods between the UK and other markets and will therefore also impact the transport and logistics sector.
Whether you are located in the United Kingdom or elsewhere if your business relies on the transportation of goods to or from the UK.
Brexit impacts
After the Brexit date you might be impacted by the following:
- Trade between the United Kingdom and countries of the European Union will no longer be treated as taking place within the same economic or customs area and will instead follow the same rules and regulations that apply for trade between the UK and any other third nation. Effectively, this will imply customs clearance and related documentation, application of duties and tariffs or more complex formalities compared to the trade between the countries within the EU.
- Trade between the United Kingdom and third countries with which the EU has special trade agreements will no longer be subject to those agreements after Brexit. This will might imply less favorable terms for trading with these countries: higher duties, different or more complex procedures, etc.
One particularly important case to consider are situations when your goods have been expedited BEFORE the Brexit date, but are scheduled to arrive at their destination AFTER the UK has already left the EU. In such cases, they will be subject to new “post-Brexit” conditions upon arrival, which might differ significantly from the “pre-Brexit” terms and conditions.
Staying informed
- Prepare your business for the UK leaving the EU– follow the information published regularly by the UK government on their dedicated page and stay informed on all the changes and additional requirements resulting from Brexit.
- One can also read the guide put together by the Confederation of British Industry, advising businesses on the practical steps they can take to try and minimize disruption after Brexit.
- Moving your cargo efficiently to and from the UK and giving you peace of mind at all times regardless of Brexit remains our priority at Maersk.
About Maersk
Maersk connects Britain with the world with direct services and convenient transshipment options in major ports around the world, while Sealand – A Maersk Company offers a wide range of short-sea connections within Europe and the Mediterranean. We are also happy to offer you comprehensive supply chain management solutions, along with other expertise – such as Customs House Brokerage, helping you plan your cargo deliveries efficiently despite administrative complexities.
Did you subscribe to our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Maersk
