The British International Freight Association has welcomed the announcement that clarifies the final implementation date of when a new computer system will replace an existing facilities used for processing Customs declarations.
BIFA's Director General, Robert Keen, states: “Our members will be pleased with the clarity that is being provided following HMRC’s announcement today that the Customs Declaration Service will serve as the UK’s single customs platform from 31 March 2023, ending the current period of dual-running that has been operating with the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight system, which CDS is designed to replace.
“Over many years since the original announcement that CDS would replace CHIEF, BIFA has made representations with the programme board on behalf of the trade association’s members.
“In 2019, when HMRC announced its proposed plan for completing delivery of CDS and migrating traders from CHIEF to the new platform, we expressed the view that the timetable would be challenging.
“Last year, we expressed our pleasure at HMRC’s intention to extend the migration timeline.
“Today’s announcement suggests that there is confidence that the new system is fully developed, stable and tested and we will now be working with our members to ensure that they are fully prepared for the new implementation schedule.”