The draft has been devised following extensive engagement with the border industry and businesses across the United Kingdom, an official release said.

A six week engagement period will now take place, with the final Target Operating Model to be published later this year.

The border transformation is backed by over a £1 billion investment across this spending review period, to improve how government systems and technology support the movement of goods and people across the border.

The proposed new model will prevent delays at the border through a reduction in the need for physical checks for many types of goods, and by ensuring that checks take place away from ports where this is needed to allow traffic to flow freely.

The proposals apply to imports from all countries. These controls will ensure the environment is protected, deliver food that is safe to eat whilst maintaining security of supply for consumers, and disrupt criminal activity before it can harm British communities.

Central to this proposed model is the new single trade window, delivered from 2023 to be fully operational by 2027. This technology will streamline processes for traders, who will only need to submit information once and in one place.

The government will also test further simplified processes by piloting an ambitious programme of trusted trader assurance schemes.

“If it is done properly then smaller firms will see benefits when it comes to importing goods into Great Britain,” William Bain, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said.

“Providing certainty for business is crucial and the focus must now be on delivering to the timescales set out. This will need a concerted effort to get the physical and digital infrastructure in place,” he added.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)