In a recent submission to an inquiry by the NI Affairs Committee, the NI Retail Consortium (NIRC) highlighted ongoing challenges faced by major supermarkets in Northern Ireland. These difficulties are related to the Windsor Framework, which is part of Northern Ireland’s post-Brexit deal covering trade and human rights. The framework is essentially an amended version of the original Brexit deal for Northern Ireland, known as the protocol.
One significant impact of the protocol was the creation of a trade border between Great Britain and Northern Ireland to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This separation posed logistical challenges for supermarkets, as most of their Northern Ireland stores are supplied from distribution centers in Great Britain. The key difference with the framework is that it allows food products sold in Northern Ireland to adhere to UK standards rather than EU standards.
Despite the provisions of the NIRMS trusted trader scheme under the framework, the NIRC expressed concerns about increasing complications in its operation over time. This has led to additional delays, including more frequent physical checks on vehicles, resulting in disruptions to retail operations. Furthermore, the NIRC questioned the feasibility of implementing the next phase of the framework on schedule.
Looking ahead, new processes for parcels sent from businesses in Great Britain will soon take effect, potentially impacting parcel carriers like Royal Mail. These carriers will need to adhere to a trusted trader scheme, with business-to-business parcels facing customs processes for the first time. The NIRC has voiced apprehension about the possible disruptions that may arise if the 31st of March deadline for these new requirements remains unchanged
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