The Road Haulage Association (RHA) in the UK is working to find solutions to a concerning development affecting goods moving between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
The RHA is reporting that the Trader Support Service (TSS) which helps businesses with customs paperwork has launched a new system ahead of time and without warning.
The TSS has switched on the Import Control System 2 (ICS2) this month despite HMRC informing businesses that it would be pushed back from its original 1 September launch until possibly December.
This sudden change took place without any communication or industry engagement and reveals a worrying disconnect between HMRC and TSS, according to the RHA.
“Administrative confusion like this impacts businesses and has a ripple effect on the supply chain – adding costs and undermining confidence,” Richard James Smith, Managing Director, RHA said.
Ultimately, this fracturing of GB-NI supply chains is driving up business costs and creating a 2025 reality of less choice and higher prices for consumers in Northern Ireland.
The TSS was established to help companies navigate trade complexities, yet operators say it’s become a source of uncertainty.
The RHA says that businesses need straightforward, concise, up-to-date guidance, not more bureaucratic confusion and mixed messages.
“We’re meeting policymakers in the days ahead to discuss these issues. It’s time for ministers and senior officials to step up and offer oversight, guidance and a roadmap for the way ahead.” Richard added.
He concluded: “We stand ready to work collaboratively with all to find a way forward.”
