The UK government has extended the Trader Support Service (TSS) until the end of 2025, ensuring continued assistance for businesses moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
A new procurement exercise for the next phase of the TSS will begin in early 2025, paving the way for future trade support as the country navigates its post-Brexit landscape.
What is the Trader Support Service?
Launched in 2020, the Trader Support Service (TSS) is designed to assist businesses in managing the changes to customs procedures after Brexit, particularly for those involved in moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
This service, offered free of charge, has been crucial in helping businesses comply with the Windsor Framework, which addresses trade complexities between the UK and the EU post-Brexit.
Since its inception, TSS has made a significant impact:
- Supported over 80,000 businesses.
- Processed more than 4 million customs declarations.
- Handled more than 2 million inbound queries.
By simplifying the administrative burden, TSS has helped businesses save both time and money while ensuring compliance with new regulations.
Procurement Exercise: What’s Next for TSS?
The current TSS contract, managed by Fujitsu, will expire at the end of 2024. In preparation, HMRC has announced that a competitive procurement exercise will commence in early 2025 to secure a new contract, which will come into effect in 2026.
This procurement is part of the government’s ongoing strategy to support businesses, particularly as the implementation of the Windsor Framework continues to evolve.
Contract Details
The new TSS contract is expected to run for three years, with an option to extend for an additional year. The estimated value of the contract ranges between £30 million and £50 million per year, signalling the government’s commitment to ensuring smooth trade flows between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
This substantial investment underscores the importance of maintaining efficient trade systems for businesses post-Brexit.
TSS Contract Details |
Value |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Current contract | £30 million – £50 million | Expires 2024 |
| New contract | £30 million – £50 million | 3 years (extendable) |
This structured approach ensures a seamless transition to the new phase of the TSS, with businesses benefiting from continued support as they navigate the complexities of post-Brexit trade.
Impact on Businesses
The extension of the TSS is great news for businesses, especially those heavily reliant on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The service provides invaluable support, ensuring companies can meet the new regulatory requirements without unnecessary complications.
By offering guidance, training, and direct support, TSS helps businesses adapt to the evolving trade environment, positioning them for future success.
According to Elizabeth McCrory, Export Finance Manager for UK Export Finance,
“TSS is a vital service for many businesses, particularly in Northern Ireland, providing the assurance they need to continue trading smoothly. This extension will offer ongoing support for businesses as they adjust to new frameworks.”
Benefits of the TSS:
- Free support for businesses moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
- Simplified customs declarations.
- Access to guidance, training, and compliance resources.
- Reduced administrative burden, saving time and money.
Businesses can sign up to the Trader Support Service and access free online courses and training materials online.
The Bigger Picture
As the UK continues to implement the Windsor Framework, government initiatives like the TSS will play a crucial role in maintaining the flow of goods between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.
The government’s focus on supporting businesses through these transitions highlights the commitment to ensuring smooth trade operations post-Brexit.
The upcoming procurement exercise for the next phase of TSS reflects the government’s long-term approach. By preparing ahead, HMRC ensures uninterrupted support for businesses, thereby minimizing potential trade disruptions. Consequently, this proactive approach supports a stable trading environment.
The Takeaway
The extension of the Trader Support Service to 2025 and the announcement of a new procurement exercise clearly demonstrate the UK government’s ongoing commitment to supporting businesses in the post-Brexit trading environment.
Moreover, for businesses moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the TSS remains an essential resource. Specifically, it provides guidance, training, and simplified customs processes that save time and reduce costs.
Furthermore, this support is crucial for businesses navigating the complexities of post-Brexit trade. Additionally, the UK government’s continued investment in the TSS underscores its dedication to facilitating smooth trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Sources: THX News & HM Revenue & Customs.
