International Trade & Customs: What Changed in 2025, and What to Watch in 2026
2025 was a pivotal year for international trade, marked by long-anticipated regulatory changes, system upgrades, and renewed geopolitical uncertainty. For UK importers, exporters and logistics providers, the year brought both progress and added complexity. Here’s a concise look at what changed, and what’s coming next.
What changed in 2025?
UK Safety & Security Declarations
The UK finally introduced mandatory Safety & Security (S&S) declarations for EU imports into Great Britain. This closed a long-standing gap in post-Brexit border controls and aligned EU imports with existing requirements for non-EU trade. While operationally challenging for some supply chains, the change gives HMRC greater visibility over inbound goods and strengthens risk-based border controls.
Upgraded customs systems
Across Europe, major customs IT programmes continued to roll out. Enhancements to the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS) and the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) brought incremental improvements, including greater use of electronic data, reduced paperwork, and better pre-arrival risk assessment. These developments are designed to speed up legitimate trade while enabling targeted intervention where needed.
The Windsor Framework Implementation completed
The final elements of the Windsor Framework were implemented, refining the rules governing movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The framework aims to reduce friction, support trusted trader arrangements, and provide greater certainty for GB–NI supply chains. The completion of the introduction of the Windsor Framework arrangements coincided with renewed UK–EU dialogue on closer regulatory cooperation.
US trade measures reshape global flows
The most disruptive global development of 2025 was the United States’ expanded use of tariffs, particularly in relation to China. While some impacts were softened by exemptions and trade agreements, the suspension of duty-free “de minimis” treatment had a major effect on global e-commerce and cross-border parcel traffic. Overall, trade policy uncertainty increased worldwide.
Looking ahead: 2026 and beyond
Greater access to UK customs data and higher compliance expectations
From March 2026, UK traders will gain free access to their customs declaration data via HMRC’s systems. This increased transparency should help businesses improve compliance and cost control, but it also signals possible higher expectations from HMRC around data accuracy and customs competency.
Low-value imports under review
The UK and EU have confirmed plans to remove low-value import relief (currently £135 Euros 150 respectively) sooner rather than later. E-commerce businesses in particular should begin preparing for higher duty and VAT exposure.
Carbon border adjustment mechanisms
Both the UK and EU are pressing ahead with Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM). The EU regime becomes fully operational in 2026, with the UK’s following in 2027. These measures will significantly affect importers of carbon-intensive goods such as steel, aluminium and fertilisers.
ICS2 fully live for road and rail
2026 should see the final phase of ICS2 implemented across EU road and rail movements. Carriers and hauliers will be legally responsible for submitting accurate Entry Summary Declarations, including movements between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the EU.
Trade agreements and regulatory alignment
A number of important trade agreements are expected to progress, including UK–India, updates to UK–South Korea arrangements, and potential developments in UK–US trade relations. Meanwhile, the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement enters its first formal review in 2026, creating an opportunity to reduce border friction where politically feasible.
In summary
2025 brought significant changes to customs and international trade, from mandatory Safety & Security declarations to the completion of the Windsor Framework and global trade shifts. Looking ahead, 2026 will see greater access to UK customs data, new compliance expectations, and the rollout of carbon border measures. Staying informed and proactive is key to keeping your supply chains efficient and compliant.
Speak with George Baker Shipping today to learn how we can help you navigate customs changes and keep your goods moving smoothly.
Get in Touch Today:
