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Virtual Strasbourg Flagship Event

By Yasmine Lingemann

What to Expect?

The Programme:

Sponsorship:

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Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period.

See our website here for more details on how we can help you: https://www.britishchamber.be/

VAT Post Brexit: Everything You Need to Know

By Yasmine Lingemann

IN BRIEF:

• VAT will now be collected at the point of sale instead of at the point of importation. 
• This means that non-UK retailers who are selling goods directly to a UK consumer with a sale value of less than €150 (£135) must:  
  • Register for UK VAT with HMRC  
  • Collect UK VAT from the consumer 
  • File VAT returns 
  • Send VAT to HMRC 
• The EU are also implementing their own VAT system in July 2021 – where non-EU sellers must register once for the whole EU market.  

WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON BUSINESS?

While organisations would have welcomed the trade deal between the U.K. and EU, signed on December 30, 2020, it came so close to the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31, 2020 that many had insufficient time to fully understand its implications on their activities before it took effect. As people return to work their focus will now be on understanding what changes have taken place as a result of Brexit and the terms of the deal. The economic repercussions of Brexit have been challenging to many, so it is very important businesses familiarise themselves with the changes, so to benefit the most in this difficult time.

Much has been written in the press about how these VAT changes make life more difficult for non-UK businesses. However, if those businesses were already making sales valued at more than £70,000 a year into the UK they would have already been VAT registered and charging UK VAT to customers.  If the packages being delivered are under £135 in value there will be no import VAT or duty to pay and hence, their situation will remain largely unchanged save for the need to complete customs declarations.

For businesses that were not already UK VAT registered and have packages valued at more than £135 or sell via OMP, the position is more complicated.  To determine what your obligations are we would recommend reviewing the following questions:

1. What is the value of my package?
2. If selling via an OMP will you met the conditions for them to take on your obligations to account for UK VAT?
3. If your packages are going to be over £135, what will the customer experience be like if they have to pay extra import costs in addition to your charge?
4. If packages are over £135, will any duties be payable?

Generally, most of the UK’s VAT rules applicable to organisations providing services remain unchanged post Brexit. Specifically, there were no widespread changes to the place of supply provisions (rules that determine the country in which VAT is paid) or rates of VAT. However, changes were made in other areas, and it’s important you familiarise yourself with these changes so that you don’t lose out as a business.

For example, EU retailers sending packages to the UK now need to fill out customs declaration forms. Shoppers may also have to pay customs or VAT charges, depending on the value of the product and where it came from. However, customs charges are the responsibility of the customer, not the retailer, who often has no idea of how much the eventual extra cost might be. They cannot be paid in advance and are levied only when the item reaches the UK.

The end of the Brexit withdrawal period has resulted in many UK VAT rule changes, and organisations will need to adapt to new VAT accounting arrangements. We recommend  that organisations review their sales and purchase transactions and administrative processes to ensure that any changes to the VAT rules have been identified. This will help guard against unexpected costs.

We are here to help you. Head over to our new website here, where you can find support in our Brexit Hub, and get in contact with us or our network to make sure you adapt to these new changes successfully.

THE FACTS:

VAT on GOODS COMING INTO THE UK: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-business-exporting-to-the-uk

UK VAT registered businesses importing goods into the UK are able to account for import VAT on their VAT return, rather than paying import VAT on or soon after the time that the goods arrive at the UK border. This applies to imports from the EU and non-EU countries. 

However, customs declarations and the payment of any other duties are still required. Customs duty (tariffs) applies to some goods and excise duties continue to apply to tobacco, alcohol and certain energy products. Customs and excise duty payments can be deferred to be settled monthly with a duty deferment account. Businesses need to register with HMRC to open a duty deferment account and will need to provide a bank guarantee.

Since 1 January 2021, VAT on imported goods with a value of up to £135 is collected at the point of sale not the point of importation. This means that UK supply VAT, rather than import VAT, are due on these consignments.

Online marketplaces (OMPs) involved in facilitating the sale of imported goods, are responsible for collecting and accounting for the VAT, even when the goods are in the UK at the point of sale.

For goods sent from overseas and sold directly to UK consumers, the overseas seller is required to register and account for the VAT to HMRC. Overseas sellers also remain responsible for accounting for the VAT on goods in the UK when sold directly to UK consumers.

Business-to-business sales not exceeding £135 in value are also be subject to the new rules. However, where the business customer is VAT registered and provides its registration number to the seller, the VAT will be accounted for by the customer by means of a reverse charge. 

AT THE UK BORDER:

Fiscal compliance checks at the UK border include checks to confirm the correct valuation for goods declared at import. Current requirements for importers and agents to assure the completeness and correctness of declarations will remain. Systems should be extended to cover EU imports with a view to identifying false information from consignors, to assure HMRC that clear anomalies can be pulled out from the high scale of declaration volumes typically handled. In particular, importers and agents will need to ensure their systems can identify consignments that are outside the scope of the new arrangements and thus remain liable to import VAT.

Vigilance around consignment valuation will continue, but with more focus on the declaration boundary at £135 or less for this policy. Systems will need to identify excise goods and goods being sent by one private individual to another, which are outside the scope of the new arrangements.

VAT ON GOODS COMING OUT OF THE UK: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-business-importing-from-the-uk

Check with your EU country’s customs authority about the rules for sending goods to the UK from the EU. Make sure you talk to your trading partners in the UK to:

• agree responsibilities
• make sure you have the correct paperwork for the type of goods you are trading

You must make sure you have completed the necessary border requirements.

There will be no substantive change for the movement of goods between Northern Ireland and member states of the EU, including Ireland.

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Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period.

See our website here for more details on how we can help you: https://www.britishchamber.be/

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Digitalising Education: The Time is Now

By Yasmine Lingemann

The COVID-19 pandemic has created the largest disruption of education systems in history, and now more than ever, we are learning the ever-increasing importance of an efficient, fair, and accessible digitalised education. A study done by Deloitte found that 75% of teachers believe that digital education content will totally replace printed textbooks within the next 10 years. Now is the time to brush up on your digital skills and prepare for a new wave of education.

On the 25th of November 2020, we were delighted to be joined by Ms Antoaneta Angelova-Krasteva who is the Director for Innovation, International Cooperation and Sport at DG EAC. She gave a detailed presentation on the aims and challenges for digitalising education in the future. Yes, some of these challenges existed before the pandemic, but now that we are forced to do everything online, digital competences are about equipping every member of society with the appropriate skills to be able to take advantage of these new digital opportunities.

The good news is that 62% of respondents to the DG EAC survey reported that their digital skills had increased, and half of the respondents plan to continue to improve them after the crisis ends. Online and blended training was the most popular tool for improving these digital skills. More work still needs to be done, as digital skills become more important in the labour market. Enabling digital connectivity for schools was a top priority with high-quality digital content and user-friendly tools seen as vital for improving the digitalisation of education. It is clear that these tools should also respect privacy and ethical standards in order for people to trust in the digital evolution.

Furthermore, the enhancement of digital skills and knowledge is another priority. Fostering further knowledge on new technology, such as AI, is seen as crucial in enabling the technology further. Also stated was that public-private partnership is important in helping to advance digital skills. The Digital Education Action Plan has set ambitious visions for the next 7 years with the focus on effective use of digital technologies for teaching and learning.

Bridging the Gender Digital Divide by encouraging and facilitating women’s participation in STEM is paramount, as is narrowing the digital divide between rich and poor. We are all expected to keep up with the ever integral digital world, though many are not starting on a level playing field. In order for us all to reap the benefits and use digitalised education for the greater good, funding towards giving under-represented groups the tools, resources, and opportunities must be prioritised.

To finish, the COVID-19 crisis is a turning point for the use of technology in education (up by 95%), and in response, online training is expected to be the most popular tool for improving digital skills and competences. Digital literacy is listed as the top digital skill of the 21st century though the deepening socioeconomic inequalities and creation of new divides is to be addressed and prioritised as a main concern.

At BritCham, our recently launched Digital Working Group reflects the ever-growing importance of these issues, and will help ensure that the we continues to play an active and visible role in the digital policymaking debate which is currently taking place in Brussels, in the UK and globally, helping businesses and traders navigate this complex and rapidly evolving environment to seize the new opportunities that will arise. We look forward to continuing to take part in this important discussion, and encourage you to join us in future events on releated digital topics such as our upcoming event on: Big data: risks or opportunities for Europe? Learning the lessons from social media personal identity profiling: With Eva Kaili MEP.

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BRITCHAM SUPPORT
Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period. Click here to register: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

SD Worx and BritCham EU & Belgium Present: Brexit FAQ’s and UK-Belgium Employer-Employee Issues

The most up-to-date advice and FAQ’s for UK and Belgium Employer-Employee issues post-January 2021. Advice subject to these issues not being revised as part of the ongoing negotiations.

For more information, contact Daniel Dalton Chief Executive of BritCham EU & Belgium at daniel.dalton@britcham.eu or Hugues Thibaut Head of Public Affairs SD Worx at hugues.thibaut@sdworx.com

Advice before 1st January 2021:

For British citizens in Belgium

Employees that have worked in Belgium and have a residence permit: Can they continue to work and live as before?

British citizens who already lived in Belgium before 1 January 2021 still have an E or E+ card and do not have to take any steps themselves. The Office for Foreigners will call them to issue them with an M card by the end of 2021. British citizens may continue to work here without applying for a single permit.

British Citizen employees that have a family member who has lived in Belgium for a while and has an F or F+ card: Can they continue to work and live as before? 

Yes, this person may continue to live and work here. The Office for Foreigners will issue them with an M card. By the end of 2021, all family members should have this new residence document.

British employees that live in Belgium for work, and return home for weekends: What should they do?

They must request an Annex 15 from the municipality where they work. In 2021, the employee will have this converted into an N card. They may continue to work here without applying for a single permit. 

British employees that only work in Belgium, but take the Eurostar to and from the United Kingdom every day: What should they do?

They should request an Annex 15 from the municipality where they work as soon as possible- this will also be converted into an N card. They may continue to work here without applying for a single permit. 

British employees that have an Annex 15: Do they need a single permit/work permit to work in Belgium in 2021? 

No, they do not need a single permit/work permit. They did not need this in the past either.

British employees that have already been seconded during the transition period, which will continue after 31 December 2020: Will they continue to be covered by British social security?

Yes, they may continue to be covered by United Kingdom social security. As long as the situation continues without interruption, they will be covered by United Kingdom social security. Without interruption does not necessarily only refer to secondment. If simultaneous employment follows the secondment, this will also be without interruption. The British government will continue to issue A1 documents for these situations.

British employees that have been working in Belgium 3 days a week and in the United Kingdom 2 days a week for a number of years under British social security with an A1 simultaneous employment that is allocated for a year: Can they extend it?

Yes, as long as their situation continues without interruption, they may continue to be covered by British social security. The British government will continue to issue A1 documents for these situations.

Belgians in the United Kingdom

Employees that have been living and working in the United Kingdom for some time: Can they still live and work there as before? 

They have until 30 June 2021 to request a settled or pre-settled status. This status allows them to continue living and working in the United Kingdom. By requesting a settled or pre-settled status, they indemnify the following rights:

• Access to the National Health Service.
• The option to continue living and working in the United Kingdom.

Employees that only work in the United Kingdom, living there from Monday to Friday: What should they do?

They have until 30 June 2021 to request a settled or pre-settled status. This status allows them to live and work in the United Kingdom. 

Employees that only work in the United Kingdom, but take the Eurostar to and from Belgium every day: What should they do?
From 1 July 2021, he must have a valid frontier work permit and a valid passport to work in the United Kingdom. Until 1 July 2021, they may continue to use their passport to work in the United Kingdom. The British government is still working on a procedure to apply for this work permit. 

Employee’s secondment period ends on 31 January 2021, and will be extended for one year: Will they continue to be covered by Belgian social security?

 Yes, as long as their situation continues without interruption, they may continue to be covered by Belgian social security. The Belgian government will continue to issue A1 documents for these situations.

Employees that have been working in Belgium and in the United Kingdom for a number of years under Belgian social security, and have A1 simultaneous employment which is allocated for a year: Can they extend it?

Yes, as long as the situation continues without interruption, they may continue to be covered by Belgian social security. The Belgian government will continue to issue A1 documents for these situations.

Advice from the 1st January 2021

For British citizens to Belgium

Does a British citizen living and working in Flanders/Brussels/Wallonia/German-speaking Community for more than 90 days need a single permit?

Yes. The place of employment determines in which region the employment must apply for the single permit.

Does a British citizen travelling to Belgium have to have a visa to work here for less than 90 days?

No, British citizens are exempt from the visa requirement. The employee must be able to prove to customs why they are travelling to Belgium with an invitation or work permit. Customs may ask for any supporting documents such as a hotel reservation.

Does a British citizen who comes to work in Flanders/Brussels/Wallonia/German-speaking Community for less than 90 days within a period of 180 days need a work permit or a single permit?

Yes. The place of employment determines in which region the employer must apply for the work permit. 

Does a British citizen who stays in Belgium to work for less than 90 days need a Belgian residence document?

• Hotel: If the British employee is staying in a hotel, they do not have to register with the municipality. Their British passport is sufficient.
• Apartment/house: If a British citizen rents a house in Belgium, they must register with the municipality. They will then receive an Annex 3 or an Annex 15 as a frontier worker.

A British employer is temporarily seconding a British employee to Belgium (100% employment): Will they continue to be covered by British social security?

This situation has not yet been resolved and is part of the negotiations. If there is no agreement, British citizens can come to Belgium for 52 weeks under British social security. If they stay for longer, this situation must be assessed further.

A British employee works in Belgium 3 days a week and in the United Kingdom for 2 days a week: Where do they have to pay their social security contributions?

This situation has not yet been resolved and is part of the negotiations. We will update as we have more news. If there is no agreement, British citizens may be socially insured in Belgium and the UK.

A British employee lives in Belgium and also works in the Netherlands and Belgium: Does the European Social Security Regulation still apply to them?

Yes, this regulation also applies to nationals of non-member countries, including British citizens. You can also apply these European rules to the employment situation of the British employee.

For Belgian Citizens to the United Kingdom

Does a Belgian travelling to the United Kingdom need a visa to work there?

In certain cases, they do not need a visa to travel to the United Kingdom for professional reasons. For example, if they attend meetings or negotiate contracts. In other cases, visas are required regardless of the duration of work in the United Kingdom.

An employee lives and only works in the United Kingdom for a British employer: What do I need to do?

The employee must apply for a specific visa based on points. Only employees who can demonstrate sufficient points may still enter the United Kingdom. The British Government allocates points based on the skills, qualification and income of Belgians. The employee must score at least 70 points to be able to work in the United Kingdom. This will be the case, for example, if they:

• Have already received a job offer from a British employer (20 points).
• Are highly qualified (20 points).
• Have a minimum annual salary of currently £25,600 (20 points).
• Can speak English (10 points).

In addition, the British employer must act as a sponsor.

An employee only works and lives in the United Kingdom: What do I need to do?

They must have a visa. In order to obtain a visa, they must have a recognised British company as a sponsor. If there is no recognised British company, it will be difficult to employ a Belgian in the United Kingdom. A Belgian company should have a British branch or establishment on British territory.

I am temporarily sending my employee to our United Kingdom sister company to carry out an assignment: What needs to be done?

The employee will apply for an Intra-company transfer visa and the company will act as a sponsor. Unless the employee earns £73,900 or more per year and working for you for at least 12 months.

I am seconding my employee temporarily (100% employment) to the United Kingdom: Will they continue to be covered by Belgian social security?

The situation has not yet been resolved and is part of the negotiations. If there is no agreement, you can second the employee to the UK under Belgian social security for six months. The six-month period may be extended once for a further six months. If they stay for longer, the situation must be assessed further.

My employee works in Belgium 3 days a week and in the United Kingdom for 2 days a week: Where do they have to pay their social security contributions?

The situation has not yet been resolved and is part of the negotiations. If there is no agreement, Belgian citizens run the risk of being socially insured in Belgium and the United Kingdom.

I am sending an employee to our British branch whose secondment will last a number of years and they do not want to lose their Belgian social security: What are their options?

If covered under British social security is not sufficient for the employee, the employee can still join the Overseas Social Security scheme.

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BRITCHAM SUPPORT
Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period. Click here to register: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

COVID-19 Restrictions Update: Beligum & UK

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UK

As a wave of infections sweeps back over Europe, many of its countries are forced to reintroduce restrictions on work, leisure and education.

England is set to endure a month of restrictions, beginning Thursday 5th November until Wednesday 2nd December, similar to European countries such as France and Germany that also announced national restrictions in response to a surge in infections. This comes as a result of revised health projections that reflect stark warnings of hospital beds filling rapidly and deaths expected to increase.

Across the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are following their own restrictions. Northern Ireland has extended its school break for an additional week (totalling two weeks) and bars and restaurants are closed for four weeks. Wales has been following a ‘fire-break lockdown’ which is due to end today. People will be able to form household bubbles again and meet in pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants when Wales’ restrictions end.

Scotlands measures are in effect from today and include a 5-tiered system. Each borough has currently been graded between levels 1-3, with level 3 areas including Glasgow and Edinburgh. As a result, over half of Scotlands population is placed in tier 3 which means alcohol will not be permitted to be sold indoors or outdoors in hospitality, all hospitality settings are required to close by 6pm and people advised on not leaving their local area.

In England, all non-essential shops such as restaurants, gyms, places of worship, entertainment and beauty facilities will all have to close on Thursday for one month. People will be told explicitly to stay at home with the exception of work which cannot be done from home, outdoor exercise, essential shopping and education. People will be allowed to meet one other person from another household outside in a public place but not in their homes or gardens. Conversely to Belgian rules, schools in England will remain open.

The United Kingdom reports 18,950 new cases in 24h with a total of 1,053,864 cases since the epidemic broke out. This Monday November 2, 2020, 136 deaths in 24h, leading to a total of 46,853 deaths have been reported. England is about to go back into lockdown until December 1, and other European countries are making always stricter measures to try and stop the new Covid-19 rise. 

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BELGIUM

Belgium went into a second ‘reinforced’ lockdown on Monday 2^nd November, due to continue to the 13^th of December at the very least. Like in England, half term holidays have been extended til the 15^th November. Restrictions vary between the Brussels-Capital, Flemish and Walloon regions. Curfews and mask regulations differ as follows: In the Brussels-Capital Region, there is a curfew from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM and a mask must be worn at all times. For Flanders, the curfew is midnight to 5:00 AM and a mask but be worn on public transport, in busy places, and on streets where local authorities made it mandatory. Lastly for Wallonia, the curfew is from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM and a mask must be worn on public transport, in busy places, and on streets where local authorities made it mandatory.

Shops deemed non-essential have closed, and social gatherings outlawed. Restaurants, bars and cafes are closed, with takeaway running until 10pm. All higher education will now be online, and teleworking is mandatory unless it is not possible.  

Belgium has the highest rate of coronavirus infections in Europe. The country has been struggling to come up with a unified and coordinated approach to the pandemic, and has been juggling the economic interests of the north of the country with the situation in southern Wallonia, the worst-hit region.

Belgium reports – as of November 2 – 11,789 new cases have been reported in 24 hours taking it up to a total of 441,018 cases, as hospitalisations are peaking like for the first wave. There have been 108 deaths in 24 hours, taking it to a total of 11,737 deaths. Belgium is following France and is placed back into lockdown stating for a month, from Monday November 2 to December 13, with assessment on December 1.

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Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period.

See our website here for more details on how we can help you: https://www.britishchamber.be/

Black History Month: How you and your business can take action now

By Elizabeth Gull

This year the death of George Floyd jolted not just America but the world and inspired the Black Lives Matter protests. During the protests a quote by @lifewcourt resonated with me on this issue:

“I’m not black, but I see you
I’m not black, but I hear you
I’m not black, but I mourn with you
I’m not black, but I will fight for you”

I want to continue to fight because this issue does not stop when it’s no longer viral.

Diversity is often talked about as an ideal world scenario and then pushed to the bottom of the list when other commitments take precedent. This is especially true at the moment because it is hard for companies to prioritise diversity when COVID has caused many businesses across a range of sectors to struggle for survival, and HR departments have been preoccupied with the task of ensuring the safety of employees through social distancing and PPE.

This October marked Black History Month, a period to reflect on the narratives that have shaped Black culture. So in this article I want to highlight something that often gets lost in conversation, which is that diversity matters for more reasons than simply to keep things fair. Diversity is good for business.  A McKinsey study, which is linked below in the crowd sourcing section, proved this when it found that ethnically diverse companies were 35% more likely to outperform those in the bottom quartile for diversity. This report underscores the importance of focusing on increasing the representation of voices around the table and layering that with a culture where people feel safe to use their voices authentically and fully contribute their ideas.

It is clear that having a diverse and inclusive environment is the smart thing to do for your company, so here are some practical measures that can help create a diverse and inclusive work environment:

Crowd sourcing solutions from our members.

Here are some picks from our Diversity & Inclusion Committee who have shared with us the books, films and podcasts that have impacted them on this issue:

1. Read the McKinsey report Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters  which shows that the most diverse companies are now more likely than ever to outperform less diverse peers on profitability.
2. Listen to the Intersectionality Matters! podcast which is hosted by Kimberlé Crenshaw and looks at the reality of race and gender bias to show that if you’re standing in the path of multiple forms of exclusion, you’re likely to get hit by both.
3. Head to the BBC to watch The Unwanted: The Secret Windrush Files where presenter David Olusoga uncovers a story of racial prejudice at the highest levels of government, exploring how the Windrush Scandal was rooted in buried events that happened 70 years ago.
   

The UK is a place where we are free to have these conversations and celebrate diversity. For instance, if you want to be inspired by some of the positive things that British people have done to inspire others to explore their heritage then this article on ‘five projects shining a light on black culture in the UK’ is a really nice read.

Moreover, there are many people in the UK who have succeeded despite the challenges. Following the 2019 General Election, 65 or 10% of Members of the House of Commons were from ethnic minority backgrounds and the number of MPs from ethnic minority backgrounds has increased at each general election since 1987. There is still more progress to be made in Parliament, because if the ethnic make-up of the Commons reflected that of the UK population there would be about 93 Members from ethnic minority backgrounds. However, the progress that we have made should be celebrated and if you would like to find out more about ethnic diversity in politics and public life, click here.

If you would to learn about the wider global context, here are some resources from outside of the UK:

1. Stream Dear White People on Netflix, a series that follows a group of students of colour at a predominantly white university to highlight the issues that still plague today’s ‘post-racial’ society.
2. Read What Should White People Do? by Linda Martin Alcoff who explores white attempts to move towards a proactive position against racism that will amount to more than self-criticism.

Measure your progress.

Ensuring diversity in the workplace is a journey that we learn as we go from others ahead of ourselves on the journey. Nobody has it 100% right. Following on from that, it always helps to be able to reflect on how far you’ve come, so commit to goals at board level and track your progress which will help to prove success.

One such goal could be to tackle subconscious preconceptions. These preconceptions can have a negative impact on your business, especially in the recruitment process as the candidates best positioned to help your company grow may be overlooked. The first step to avoid this is to be aware of it which could mean providing training to help your employees learn how to think more openly and so get a better understanding of a person’s professional capacity so that skin colour is not the deciding factor in who gets hired and instead the best person for the job is the one who gets it.

This requires challenging people’s assumptions. In an interview some examples of how to do this would be to cover up the names on resumes, set up diverse interview panels, and ask every candidate the same questions.

Other goals include setting up a Diversity and Inclusion Committee and meeting regularly to have open discussions both about what may need to be improved and also about what your company does well for diversity. This article is for Black History Month and so talks particularly about issues of ethnic diversity, however it is important to discuss all forms of diversity such as gender, class and age etc.

As you increase diversity, celebrate it!

Often those who don’t have a role model will not put themselves forward for jobs or promotions, so make sure to encourage mentoring from those in leadership positions so that they can become the cultural role models who inspire others.

In Britain, we are lucky enough to have phenomenal black role models: Mo Farah, the most successful British track athlete in modern Olympic Games history, John Stewart, first black British male MP, Cynthia Erivo, first black British actress to be nominated for an Oscar award- the list goes on. Yet, more needs to be done to make this list known, and to allow it to keep expanding.

It is also important to embrace the diversity of thought that comes hand in hand with an inclusive workplace. Assembling a team that acts and thinks in the same way is often fairly easy to do, and in such teams consensus will be reached on most issues without much debate. However, unless all your customers also think the same it is a difficult task to grow your business with this homogenous workforce. You want to create an environment where people feel their input is valued, even if it goes against the way you would normally expect things to be done, because through this your business can discover new ways of doing things and successfully lead through change.

We are not trying to point fingers. We are by no means perfect. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. However, establishing diversity and inclusion measures in your workplace is not only the right thing to do, but will also infinitely benefit your business, too.

Think you are embracing diversity of thought? Take the diversity of thought assessment by the Glenn Llopis Group here to find out.

Finally, at the British Chamber of Commerce | EU & Belgium we would love to hear from you. If you have had any experiences as a business with these issues then feel free to leave a comment or send an email to eucommittee@britishchamber.eu to let us know your strategies for overcoming them.

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Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period.
See our website here for more details on how we can help you: https://www.britishchamber.be/

Get Ready for Brexit!

By Yasmine Lingemann

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With the end of the Brexit transition period fast approaching, here are 5 steps BritCham EU & Brussels suggest you and your business should take for importing into the EU, and 5 steps for importing into the UK.
Available in English, French, German and Dutch.
If you have any further questions, please head over to https://www.gov.uk/eubusiness for more information.

IMPORTING INTO THE EU:
Step 1: Register with Customs!
No relationship with Customs yet? Request an EORI number with them as soon as possible. Every company in Europe involved in exporting from the UK will require a GB EORI number- you cannot export without one. Also, if you are an importer or exporter who uses a forwarder or customs agent for your import and export declarations, please contact national customs as the application process may vary from country to country.

Step 2: Decide who takes care of the import and export declarations!
After the Brexit transition period ends, determine whether you will submit import and/or export declarations to Customs yourself or whether you will use a forwarder or customs agent for this. If you submit the declarations yourself, you will need separate software and licences. For this software you will find an overview of possible suppliers on the Dutch customs website.

Step 3: Determine who is responsible for the pre-notification of customs documents!
After Brexit, the pre-notification of customs documents is mandatory at all ferry terminals and most shortsea terminals. The importer/exporter can do this, but also the forwarder, customs agent or, on occasion, the transport company. Make clear agreements about this! Without pre-notification, the transporter will not be granted access to the terminal.

Step 4: Fill in the necessary documentation!
Importers should submit or enter the required data in the import clearance system via an EDI interface to the Customs computer Paperless Customs and Excises (PLDA) system. The import declaration, including security data, has been compulsorily submitted online via the PLDA-program (ICS = Import Control System). The importer can likewise declare the goods by presenting a finished Single Administrative Document (SAD form) to Belgian Customs. The official model for written declarations to customs is the Single Administrative Document (SAD). The SAD delineates products and their movement around the world and is fundamental for trade outside the EU, or of non-EU merchandise. Merchandise brought into the EU customs area is, from the time of their entrance, subject to customs supervision until customs formalities are finished. Items are secured by a Summary Declaration which is documented once the things have been shown to customs authorities.

Step 5: Check beforehand whether the terminal has the customs document!
Only cargo that has been digitally pre-notified can enter and leave the terminal. Otherwise, the container or trailer will come to a standstill here. You will then be referred to a temporary parking location. You can contact your client or transport planner there to get the necessary customs formalities in order.Therefore, before you start driving, always check the status at the termina. No customs document, no pre-notification at the terminal, no transport!

IMPORTING INTO THE UK
Step 1: Get an EORI Number
As a business owner, you need to make sure that your business has an Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number (EORI). In order to continue importing goods into the UK, you will need to have a 12-digit EORI starting with GB. You may not need an EORI number if your business is service-based or if you want to move goods between Northern Ireland and Ireland. If your business does not have an EORI number, then you might face delays and increased costs while importing goods. Check what documents you may need to apply for an EORI number here.

Step 2: Make Importing Declarations!
To make import declarations, you can either hire an agent or do it yourself.

HIRING A CUSTOMS AGENT: Freight forwarders, brokers, and fast parcel operators are some of the types of agents who can handle customs for you. Freight forwarders can assist you with moving the goods around the world. They can even make arrangements to help you get customs clearance. Brokers or custom agents ensure clearance through customs. Fast parcel operators can help you move documents, parcels, and freight across the world within a specific time frame. They can even handle customs clearance for you, provided you give them written instructions. The instructions must clarify whether these agents are acting for you directly or indirectly. If your business is new and you are still in search of a customs agent, you can find one from HMRC’s list of customs agents.

DECLARING IMPORTS YOURSELF:
If you are making customs import declarations by yourself, there are three important things for you to know when you import from outside the UK: how to submit, when to submit, and which boxes to complete.  
a. How to submit –If you are submitting your declarations on your own, they have to be sent electronically through the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system. To do this, you must first apply to gain access to CHIEF and then buy third-party software to submit declarations electronically via CHIEF. While moving merchandise in baggage or small vehicles, you will need to submit a full declaration in advance if the goods meet any of the following conditions:– the value of goods is over 900 Euro– the goods weigh more than 1,000 kg– you are moving excise or restricted goods– the goods need a licence– you are planning to claim relief.   
b. When to submit – Under normal circumstances, a business owner must submit a complete declaration when goods are entering the UK. If you are moving your goods to temporary storage under customs supervision, they can remain in storage for 90 days. If the 90-day time limit is exceeded, you will need to pay the duty, VAT and penalty.The declaration process may vary if you are using the simplified declaration procedure or operating under an EIDR(entry in declarant’s record) authorisation. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the goods you import from the EU might get delayed. This is because it may take longer than usual for you to submit a full declaration and pay your import duties and VAT. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, you can still utilise the roll on roll off ports or the Channel Tunnel to import goods from the EU. You may need to produce customs declarations and pay any excise duty or VAT. 
c. Boxes to complete – Each time you are moving goods, you must include the commodity code in your customs declarations. You may also have to include the CustomsProcedure Code (CPC), which identifies the customs procedure applied while moving the goods.

Step 3: Make Importing Easier
There are other customs procedures designed to streamline the process, like the CommonTransit Convention (CTC), which simplifies the way in which goods get transported between or through the EU and the common transit countries. If your business imports goods frequently, you can set up a duty deferment account. This allows you to make one payment per time interval (for instance, a month), instead of making payments every time you import something. You can also get customs authorisations too, but you will need a deferment account for this.

Step 4: Check the Tax & Duty Rates to be Paid!
For every import, you will have to pay custom duties and VAT. If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, the custom duty tariffs for imports from the EU and the rest of the world will change.Reports say that the temporary rates will be applicable for up to 12 months until the government completes its public consultation and introduces a permanent tariff regime.Based on where the goods come from, the tariff rates can be classified as either preferential (also called MostFavoured Nation or MFN) and non-preferential.A preferential tariff rate will be applicable on goods if the country they are imported from has trade agreement with the UK and is a part of the UK’s generalised scheme of preferences.Non-preferential tariffs will be applicable for those countries which do not hold an official trade agreement with the UK and will eventually have to comply with the trade regulations set up by World TradeOrganisation (WTO). You can find out what the non-preferential tariff rates will be in case of a no-deal Brexit here. If you have registered your business for VAT, then you will have to pay your import VAT while filing your VAT return. If your business involves the import of alcohol, tobacco, or biofuels, you will have to pay excise duties also. You can find the rates for excise duties here.

Step 5: Get the Right Type of License for the Type of Goods you Import!
Based on what kinds of goods you are moving into the UK, you may be required to have a special license or certificate. For some goods, you may even have to pay an inspection fee. You can check whether you need licenses for the goods you are importing here.

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BRITCHAM SUPPORT
Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period. Click here to register: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

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IMPORTER DANS L’UE
Étape 1: S’incrire aux Douanes!
Pas encore de relation avec les douanes? Demandez un numéro EORI avec eux dès que possible. Chaque entreprise en Europe impliquée dans l’exportation du Royaume-Uni aura besoin d’un numéro GB EORI – vous ne pouvez pas exporter sans un. De plus, si vous êtes un importateur ou un exportateur qui utilise un transitaire ou un agent des douanes pour vos déclarations d’importation et d’exportation, veuillez contacter les douanes nationales car le processus de demande peut varier d’un pays à l’autre.

Étape 2: Décider qui s’occupera des déclarations d’importation et d’exportations!
Après la fin de la période de transition du Brexit, vous deviez décider si vous allez soumettre vous-même vos déclarations d’importations et/ou d’exportations, ou si vous utiliserez les services d’un transitaire ou un agent des douanes. Si vous le faites vous-même, vous aurez besoin d’un logiciel et des licences séparés.Pour ce logiciel, vous trouverez une liste de fournisseurs en ligne sur le site internet des services de douanes hollandais.

Étape 3: Décider qui s’occupera de la pré-notification des documents douaniers!
Après Brexit, la notification pré-able des documents douaniers sera obligatoire à tous les terminaux de ferry et dans la plupart des terminaux de courte distance.  L’importateur/exportateur peut faire cette démarche, mais aussi le transitaire, l’agent des douanes ou, à l’occasion, la société de transport. Faites des accords clairs ! Sans une notification pré-able, le transitaire n’aura pas accès aux terminaux. 

Étape 4: Remplir les informations nécessaires!
L’importateur devrait présenter les données nécessaires au système par EDI (Échange de Données Informatisé) auxDouanes et Accises (PLDA). La déclaration d’importation y compris les données informatisées, est obligatoire de le présenter en ligne par le PLDA. L’importateur pourrait aussi déclarer leur produit en présentant un document administratif unique (DAU)aux douanes belges. Le DAU délimite les produits et leurs mouvements autour du monde, il est fondamental pour les échanges hors de l’UE, ou pour les produits non-européens. Les produits qui sont importés dans l’UE, dès leur entrée, sont soumis aux supervisions des douanes jusqu’à que les formalités en douane soient finies. Les articles sont sécurisés par un sommaire de déclaration qui est documenté dès qu’ils sont montrées aux autorités des douanes. 

Étape 5: Vérifier préalablement si le terminal a les formulaires de douanes!
Seule la cargaison qui est déjà notifiée préalablement pourrait rentrer et sortir du terminal. Autrement, le conteneur ou la remorque seront en arrêt. Vous serez alors dirigé vers une zone de parking temporaire. Vous pourrez contacter votre client ou transitaire surplace pour avoir les formulaires de douanes nécessaires.  Avant de commencer à conduire, vérifier toujours vos documents aux terminaux. Pas de formulaires de douanes, pas de notification pré-able aux terminaux, pas de transport ! 

IMPORTER DANS le ROYAUME UNI
Étape 1: Obtenir un Numéro EORI!
En tant que propriétaire d’entreprise, vous devez vous assurer que votre entreprise dispose d’un numéro d’enregistrement et d’identification d’opérateur économique (EORI). Afin de continuer à importer des marchandises au Royaume-Uni, vous aurez besoin d’un EORI à 12 chiffres commençant par GB. Vous n’aurez peut-être pas besoin d’un numéro EORI si votre entreprise est basée sur des services ou si vous souhaitez déplacer des marchandises entre l’Irlande du Nord et l’Irlande. Si votre entreprise ne possède pas de numéro EORI, vous risquez de subir des retards et une augmentation des coûts lors de l’importation de marchandises. Vérifiez les documents dont vous pourriez avoir besoin pour demander un numéro EORI ici.

Étape 2: Faire des Déclarations D’Importation!
Pour faire des déclarations d’importation, vous pouvez soit engager un agent, soit le faire vous-même. 

EMBAUCHE D’UN AGENT DES DOUANES:
Les transitaires, les courtiers et les opérateurs de colis rapides font partie des types d’agents qui peuvent gérer les douanes à votre place. Les transitaires peuvent vous aider à déplacer les marchandises à travers le monde. Ils peuvent même prendre des dispositions pour vous aider à obtenir le dédouanement. Les courtiers ou agents des douanes assurent le dédouanement.Les opérateurs de colis rapides peuvent vous aider à déplacer des documents, des colis et du fret à travers le monde dans un laps de temps spécifique. Ils peuvent même gérer le dédouanement à votre place, à condition que vous leur donniez des instructions écrites. Les instructions doivent préciser si ces agents agissent pour vous directement ou indirectement. Si la création de l’entreprise est récente et que vous êtes toujours à la recherche d’un agent en douane, vous pouvez en trouver un dans la liste des agents en douane du HMRC. 

DÉCLARER VOUS-MÊME IMPORT:
Si vous effectuez vous-même des déclarations d’importation en douane, vous devez savoir trois choses importantes lorsque vous importez de l’extérieur du Royaume-Uni: comments ou mettre, quand soumettre et quelles cases remplir.
a. Comment soumettre – Si vous soumettez vos déclarations vous-même, elles doivent être envoyées par voie électronique via le système de gestion des douanes du fret importé et exporté (CHIEF). Pour ce faire, vous devez d’abord faire une demande d’accès à CHIEF, puis acheter un logiciel tiers pour soumettre des déclarations par voie électronique via CHIEF. Lors du déplacement de marchandises dans des bagages ou de petits véhicules, vous devrez soumettre une déclaration complète à l’avance si les marchandises remplissent l’une des conditions suivantes:- la valeur des marchandises est supérieure à 900 euros- la marchandise pèse plus de 1000 kg- vous déplacez des produits soumis à accise ou soumis à des restrictions- les marchandises nécessitent une licence- vous prévoyez de demander une réparation 
b. Quand soumettre – Dans des circonstances normales, un propriétaire d’entreprise doit soumettre une déclaration complète lorsque les marchandises entrent au Royaume-Uni. Si vous déplacez vos marchandises vers un stockage temporaire sous contrôle douanier, elles peuvent rester en stock pendant 90 jours. Si le délai de 90 jours est dépassé, vous devrez payer les droits, la TVA et la pénalité. Le processus de déclaration peut varier si vous utilisez la procédure de déclaration simplifiée ou si vous opérez sous une autorisation EIDR (entrée dans le dossier du déclarant).En cas de Brexit sans accord, les marchandises que vous importez de l’UE pourraient être retardées. En effet, cela peut prendre plus de temps que d’habitude pour soumettre une déclaration complète et payer vos droits d’importation et votre TVA.En cas de Brexit sans accord, vous pouvez toujours utiliser les ports roll-on roll off ou le tunnel sous la Manche pour importer des marchandises de l’UE. Vous devrez peut-être produire des déclarations en douane et payer tout droit d’accise ouTVA. 
c. Boîtes à remplir – Chaque fois que vous déplacez des marchandises, vous devez inclure le code marchandise dans vos déclarations en douane. Vous devrez peut-être également inclure le code de procédure douanière (CPC), qui identifie la procédure douanière appliquée lors du déplacement des marchandises.

Étape 3: Facilitez L’Importation!
Il existe d’autres procédures douanières conçues pour rationaliser le processus, comme la convention de transit commun (CTC), qui simplifie la manière dont les marchandises sont transportées entre ou à travers l’UE et les pays de transit commun. Si votre entreprise importe fréquemment des marchandises, vous pouvez créer un compte de report des droits. Cela vous permet d’effectuer un paiement par intervalle de temps (par exemple, un mois), au lieu d’effectuer des paiements chaque fois que vous importez quelque chose. Vous pouvez également obtenir des autorisations douanières, mais vous aurez besoin d’un compte différé pour cela.

Étape 4: Vérifiez les Taux de Taxes et de Droits à Payer!
Pour chaque importation, vous devrez payer les droits de douane et la TVA. Si le Royaume-Uni quitte l’UE sans accord, les tarifs douaniers pour les importations en provenance de l’UE et du reste du monde changeront. Les rapports indiquent que les taux temporaires seront applicables jusqu’à 12 mois jusqu’à ce que le gouvernement termine sa consultation publique et introduit un régime tarifaire permanent.En fonction de la provenance des marchandises, les taux de droits peuvent être classés comme préférentiels (également appelés nation la plus favorisée ou NPF) et non préférentiels.Un taux tarifaire préférentiel sera applicable aux marchandises si le pays d’où elles sont importées a conclu un accord commercial avec le Royaume-Uni et fait partie du système de préférences généralisé du Royaume-Uni.Des tarifs non préférentiels seront applicables aux pays qui ne détiennent pas d’accord commercial officiel avec le Royaume-Uni et devront à terme se conformer aux réglementations commerciales mises en place par l’Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC). Vous pouvez découvrir quels seront les tarifs non préférentiels en cas de Brexit sans accord ici. Si vous avez enregistré votre entreprise à la TVA, vous devrez alors payer votre TVA à l’importation lors du dépôt de votre déclaration de TVA. Si votre entreprise implique l’importation d’alcool, de tabac ou de biocarburants, vous devrez également payer des droits d’accise. Vous pouvez trouver les taux des droits d’accise ici.

Étape 5: Obtenez le bon Type de Licence pour le Type de Marchandises que vous Importez!
En fonction des types de marchandises que vous transportez au Royaume-Uni, vous devrez peut-être détenir une licence ou un certificat spécial. Pour certaines marchandises, vous devrez peut-être même payer des frais d’inspection. Vous pouvez vérifier ici si vous avez besoin de licences pour les marchandises que vous importez.

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BRITCHAM APPUI
Ici, à la Chambre de commerce britannique, nous continuerons à vous mettre à jour avec les informations nécessaires pour aider tous nos membres à réussir. Nous sommes tous dans le même bateau et avec les bons plans en place, la confiance des consommateurs peut être rétablie. BritCham offre un soutien, des conseils et une couverture spécialisée pour le Brexit et le COVID-19, y compris des webinaires, des ateliers et des événements qui donneront à votre entreprise les outils dont elle a besoin pour traverser cette période difficile. Cliquez ici pour vous inscrire: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

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IMPORT IN DIE EU

Schritt 1: Stellen Sie sich beim Zoll vor!
Sind Sie beim Zoll noch nicht bekannt? Beantragen Sie umgehend eine EORI-Nummer. Jedes Unternehmen in Europa, das aus Großbritannien exportiert, benötigt eine GB EORI-Nummer – ohne eine können Sie nicht exportieren. Wenn Sie ein Importeur oder Exporteur sind, der einen Spediteur oder Zollagenten für Ihre Import- und Exporterklärungen verwendet, wenden Sie sich bitte an den nationalen Zoll, da das Antragsverfahren von Land zu Land unterschiedlich sein kann.

Schritt 2: Entscheiden Sie, wer sich um die Import- und Exporterklärungen kümmert!
Nach dem Brexit endet die Übergangszeit, Bestimmen Sie, ob Sie selbst Import- und / oder Exporterklärungen beim Zoll einreichen oder ob Sie hierfür einen Spediteur oder Zollagenten einsetzen. Wenn Sie die Erklärungen selbst einreichen, benötigen Sie separate Software und Lizenzen. Für diese Software finden Sie auf der niederländischen Zollwebsite eine Übersicht möglicher Lieferanten.

Schritt 3: Vereinbaren Sie, wer die Voranmeldung der Zollpapiere vornimmt!
Nach dem Brexit ist an allen Fährterminals und den meisten Shortsea-Terminals die Voranmeldung der Zolldokumente obligatorisch. Dies kann durch den Importeur/Exporteur, aber auch durch den Spediteur, Zollagenten oder bei Gelegenheit durch den Frachtführer erfolgen. Vereinbaren Sie klar und deutlich, wer diese Aufgabe übernimmt! Ohne Vorankündigung wird dem Frachtführer kein Zugang zum Terminal gewährt.

Schritt 4: Abonnieren Sie die Dienste!
Importeure sollten die erforderlichen Daten über eine EDI-Schnittstelle an das papierlose Zoll- und Verbrauchsteuer system (PLDA) des Zollcomputers übermitteln oder in das Einfuhrabfertigungs system eingeben. Die Einfuhranmeldung einschließlich der Sicherheitsdaten wurde zwangsweise online über das PLDA-Programm (ICS = Import Control System) eingereicht. Der Importeur kann die Waren ebenfalls deklarieren, indem er dem belgischen Zoll ein fertiges einheitliches Verwaltungsdokument (SAD-Formular) vorlegt. Das offizielle Modell für schriftliche Zollanmeldungen ist das einheitliche Verwaltungsdokument (SAD). Die SAD beschreibt Produkte und ihre weltweite Bewegung und ist von grundlegender Bedeutung für den Handel außerhalb der EU oder für Waren von außerhalb der EU. Waren, die in den Zollbereich der EU gebracht werden, unterliegen ab dem Zeitpunkt ihrer Annahme der Zollaufsicht, bis die Zollformalitäten erledigt sind. Die Gegenstände werden durch eine zusammenfassende Erklärung gesichert, die dokumentiert wird, sobald die Dinge den Zollbehörden gezeigt wurden.

Schritt 5: Prüfen Sie im voraus, ob das Terminal über das Zolldokument verfügt!
Nur elektronisch vorangemeldetes Frachtgut kann auf dem Terminal abgeliefert und abgeholt werden. Andernfalls gerät der Transport des Containers oder Trailers hier ins Stocken. Sie werden dann zu einem temporären Parkplätz weitergeleitet. Sie können sich dort an Ihren Kunden oder Transportplaner wenden, um die notwendigen Formalitäten zu erledigen.Überprüfen Sie daher immer den Status am Terminal. Ohne Zolldokument, ohne Voranmeldung am Terminal, kein Transport!

IMPORT NACH GROßBRITANNIEN

Schritt 1: Erhalten sie eine EORI Nummer!
Als Geschäftsinhaber müssen Sie sicherstellen, dass Ihr Unternehmen über eine EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number) verfügt. Um weiterhin Waren nach Großbritannien importieren zu können, benötigen Sie einen 12-stelligen EORI, der mit GB beginnt. Möglicherweise benötigen Sie keine EORI-Nummer, wenn Ihr Unternehmen serviceorientiert ist oder wenn Sie Waren zwischen Nordirland und Irland transportieren möchten. Wenn Ihr Unternehmen keine EORI-Nummer hat, kann es beim Import von Waren zu Verzögerungen und höheren Kosten kommen. Überprüfen Sie hier, welche Dokumente Sie möglicherweise benötigen, um eine EORI-Nummer zu beantragen.

Schritt 2: Einfuhrerklärungen Machen!
Um Importerklärungen abzugeben, können Sie entweder einen Agenten beauftragen oder dies selbst tun. 

EINEN ZOLLAGENTEN ANSTELLEN: 
Spediteure, Makler und schnelle Paketbetreiber sind einige der Arten von Agenten, die den Zoll für Sie erledigen können. Spediteure können Sie beim Transport der Waren um die Welt unterstützen. Sie können sogar Vorkehrungen treffen, um Ihnen bei der Zollabfertigung zu helfen.Makler oder Zollagenten sorgen für die Zollabfertigung.Schnelle Paketbetreiber können Ihnen helfen, Dokumente, Pakete und Fracht innerhalb eines bestimmten Zeitraums weltweit zu transportieren. Sie können sogar die Zollabfertigung für Sie erledigen, sofern Sie ihnen schriftliche Anweisungen geben. In den Anweisungen muss klargestellt werden, ob diese Agenten direkt oder indirekt für Sie tätig sind. Wenn Ihr Unternehmen neu ist und Sie noch auf der Suche nach einem Zollagenten sind, finden Sie einen aus der Liste der Zollagenten der HMRC. 

ERKLÄRUNG IMPORTIERT SICH:
Wenn Sie selbst Zoll importer klärungen abgeben, müssen Sie beim Import von außerhalb Großbritanniens drei wichtige Dinge wissen: wie Sie einreichen, wann Sie einreichen und welche Felder Sie ausfüllen müssen.
a. Einreichen – Wenn Sie Ihre Erklärungen selbst einreichen, müssen sie elektronisch über das Zollab fertigungs system für Import- und Exportfracht (CHIEF) gesendet werden. Dazu müssen Sie zunächst einen Antrag auf Zugang zu CHIEF stellen und dann Software von Drittanbietern kaufen, um Erklärungen elektronisch über CHIEF einzureichen.Wenn Sie Waren im Gepäck oder in kleinen Fahrzeugen bewegen, müssen Sie im Voraus eine vollständige Erklärung abgeben, wenn die Waren eine der folgenden Bedingungen erfüllen: 
– Der Warenwert beträgt über 900 Euro- Die Ware wiegt mehr als 1.000 kg- Sie bewegen verbrauchst euer pflichtige oder eingeschränkte Waren- Die Ware benötigt eine Lizenz- Sie planen, Erleichterung zu fordern. 
b. Zeitpunkt der Einreichung – Unter normalen Umständen muss ein Geschäftsinhaber eine vollständige Erklärung abgeben, wenn Waren nach Großbritannien einreisen. Wenn Sie Ihre Waren unter zollamtlicher Aufsicht vorübergehend lagern, können sie 90 Tage gelagert werden. Wenn die 90 -Tage-Frist überschritten wird, müssen Sie die Abgabe, die Mehrwertsteuer und die Strafe bezahlen. Der Deklarationsprozess kann variieren, wenn Sie das vereinfachte Deklarationsverfahren verwenden oder unter einer EIDR-Berechtigung (Eintrag im Datensatz des Anmelders) arbeiten. Im Falle eines No-Deal-Brexit können sich die Waren, die Sie aus der EU importieren, verzögern. Dies liegt daran, dass es möglicherweise länger als gewöhnlich dauert, bis Sie eine vollständige Erklärung abgeben und Ihre Einfuhrzölle und Mehrwertsteuer bezahlen.Im Falle eines No-Deal-Brexit können Sie weiterhin die Roll-on-Roll-off-Häfen oder den Kanaltunnel nutzen, um Waren aus der EU zu importieren. Möglicherweise müssen Sie Zollanmeldungen vorlegen und Verbrauchsteuern oder Mehrwertsteuer zahlen.
c. Zu vervollständigende Kisten – Jedes Mal, wenn Sie Waren bewegen, müssen Sie den Warencode in Ihre Zollanmeldungen aufnehmen. Möglicherweise müssen Sie auch den Zollkodex (CPC) angeben, der das Zollverfahren angibt, das beim Transport der Waren angewendet wird.

Schritt 3: Einfacher Einfuhren
Es gibt andere Zollverfahren zur Straffung des Prozesses, wie das Common Transit Convention (CTC), das den Transport von Waren zwischen oder durch die EU und die gemeinsamen Transitländer vereinfacht.Wenn Ihr Unternehmen häufig Waren importiert, können Sie ein Zollaufschubkonto einrichten. Auf diese Weise können Sie eine Zahlung pro Zeitintervall (z. B. einen Monat) ausführen, anstatt jedes Mal Zahlungen zu leisten, wenn Sie etwas importieren. Sie können auch Zollgenehmigungen erhalten, dafür benötigen Sie jedoch ein Aufschubkonto.

Schritt 4: Prüfen sie die zu Bezahlenden Steuern und Pflichten!
Für jeden Import müssen Sie Zölle und Mehrwertsteuer bezahlen. Wenn das Vereinigte Königreich die EU ohne ein Abkommen verlässt, werden sich die Zolltarife für Einfuhren aus der EU und dem Rest der Welt ändern. Berichten zufolge gelten die vorübergehenden Tarife bis zu 12 Monate, bis die Regierung ihre öffentliche Konsultation abgeschlossen und ein dauerhaftes Tarifsystem eingeführt hat.Je nachdem, woher die Waren stammen, können die Zollsätze entweder als bevorzugt (auch als Meistbegünstigte Nation oder MFN bezeichnet) oder als nicht bevorzugt eingestuft werden.Ein Vorzugstarif gilt für Waren, wenn das Land, aus dem sie eingeführt werden, ein Handelsabkommen mit dem Vereinigten Königreich hat und Teil des allgemeinen Präferenzschemas des Vereinigten Königreichs ist. Nicht präferenzzölle gelten für diejenigen Länder, die kein offizielles Handelsabkommen mit dem Vereinigten Königreich haben und möglicherweise die von der Welthandelsorganisation (WTO) festgelegten Handelsbestimmungen einhalten müssen. Hier erfahren Sie, wie hoch die nichtpräferenziellen Tarife im Falle eines Brexit ohne Deal sein werden.Wenn Sie Ihr Unternehmen für die Mehrwertsteuer registriert haben, müssen Sie Ihre Einfuhrumsatzsteuer bezahlen, während Sie Ihre Mehrwertsteuererklärung einreichen. Wenn Ihr Geschäft den Import von Alkohol, Tabak oder Biokraftstoffen beinhaltet, müssen Sie auch Verbrauchsteuern zahlen. Die Preise für Verbrauchsteuern finden Sie hier.

Schritt 5: Holen Sie sich die richtige Art der Lizenz für die Art der Waren, die Sie importieren!
Abhängig davon, welche Arten von Waren Sie nach Großbritannien umziehen, benötigen Sie möglicherweise eine spezielle Lizenz oder ein Zertifikat. Für einige Waren müssen Sie möglicherweise sogar eine Inspektionsgebühr zahlen. Hier können Sie prüfen, ob Sie Lizenzen für die Waren benötigen, die Sie importieren.

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BRITCHAM UNTERSTÜTZUNG
Hier bei der britischen Handelskammer werden wir Sie weiterhin mit den notwendigen Informationen aktualisieren, um allen unseren Mitgliedern zum Erfolg zu verhelfen. Wir sind alle gemeinsam dabei, und mit den richtigen Plänen kann das Verbrauchervertrauen wiederhergestellt werden. BritCham bietet Unterstützung, Anleitung und spezielle Berichterstattung sowohl für den Brexit als auch für COVID-19, einschließlich Webinaren, Workshops und Veranstaltungen, die Ihrem Unternehmen die Tools bieten, die es benötigt, um durch diese herausfordernde Zeit zu navigieren. Klicken Sie hier, um sich zu registrieren: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

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IMPORTEREN IN DE EU
Stap 1: Maak u bekend bij de Douane!
Nog geen relatie met de Douane? Vraag zo snel mogelijk bij hen een EORI-nummer aan. Elk bedrijf in Europa dat betrokken is bij het exporteren vanuit het VK, heeft een GB EORI-nummer nodig – u kunt niet zonder een nummer exporteren. Als u een importeur of exporteur bent die een expediteur of douane-expediteur gebruikt voor uw in- en uitvoeraangiften, neem dan contact op met de nationale douane, aangezien het aanvraagproces van land tot land kan verschillen.

Stap 2: Bepaal wie de invoer- of uitvoeraangiften doet!
Na afloop van de Brexit-overgangsperiode,
bepaal als importeur of exporteur of u na de Brexit zelf bij de Douane invoer- c.q. uitvoeraangiften wilt doen, of dat u een expediteur of douaneagent inschakelt. Doet u de aangiften zelf, dan zijn aparte software en vergunningen nodig. Voor deze software vindt u op de douane website een overzicht van mogelijke leveranciers.

Stap 3: Spreek af wie de douanedocumenten voormeldt!
Na de Brexit is het voormelden van douanedocumenten bij alle ferryterminals en het merendeel van de shortsea-terminals verplicht. Dat kan de importeur/exporteur doen, maar ook de expediteur, douaneagent of bij gelegenheid de vervoerder. Spreek dit goed af! Zonder voormelding krijgt de vervoerder geen toegang tot de terminal.

Stap 4: Abonneer u op de services!
Importeurs dienen de vereiste gegevens in het in klarings systeem in te voeren of in te voeren via een EDI-interface naar het douanecomputer Paperless Customs and Excises (PLDA) -systeem. De aangifte ten invoer, inclusief beveiligingsgegevens, is verplicht online ingediend via het PLDA-programma (ICS = Import Control System).De importeur kan de goederen eveneens aangeven door een afgewerkt Enig Administratief Document (ED-formulier) voor te leggen aan de Belgische Douane. Het officiële model voor schriftelijke aangiften bij de douane is het Enig Administratief Document (ED). Het ED omschrijft producten en hun verplaatsingen over de hele wereld en is van fundamenteel belang voor de handel buiten de EU, of van niet-EU-goederen. Goederen die het douanegebied van de EU binnenkomen, zijn vanaf het moment van binnenkomst onderworpen aan douanetoezicht totdat de douaneformaliteiten zijn afgehandeld. Artikelen worden beveiligd door een summiere aangifte die wordt gedocumenteerd zodra de zaken aan de douane zijn getoond.

Stap 5: Check vooraf of de terminal het douanedocument heeft!
Alleen digitaal voorgemelde lading kan de terminal op en af. Anders komt de container of trailer hier tot stilstand. U wordt  dan verwezen naar een tijdelijke parkeerlocatie. U kunt daar contact opnemen met uw opdrachtgever of transportplanner om de noodzakelijke formaliteiten alsnog in orde te krijgen.Check daarom voordat u gaat rijden altijd de status bij de terminal. Geen douanedocument, geen voormelding bij de terminal, géén vervoer!

IMPORTEREN IN HET VK
Stap 1: Krijg Een EORI Nummer!
Als bedrijfseigenaar moet u ervoor zorgen dat uw bedrijf een Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number (EORI) heeft. Als u goederen in het VK wilt blijven importeren, heeft u een 12-cijferige EORI nodig die begint met GB. Mogelijk hebt u geen EORI-nummer nodig als uw bedrijf servicegericht is of als u goederen wilt vervoeren tussen Noord-Ierland en Ierland. Als uw bedrijf geen EORI-nummer heeft, kunt u te maken krijgen met vertragingen en hogere kosten bij het importeren van goederen.Bekijk hier welke documenten u eventueel nodig heeft om een ​​EORI-nummer aan te vragen.

Stap 2: Doe Importverklaringe!
Om aangiften ten invoer te doen, kunt u een makelaar inhuren of dit zelf doen.

EEN DOUANE-AGENT INHUREN: Expediteurs, makelaars en snelle pakketbeheerders zijn enkele van de soorten agenten die de douane voor u kunnen afhandelen. Expediteurs kunnen u helpen bij het verplaatsen van de goederen over de hele wereld. Ze kunnen zelfs regelingen treffen om u te helpen bij de inklaring. Makelaars of douane-expediteurs zorgen voor inklaring door de douane. Exploitanten van snelle pakketten kunnen u helpen binnen een bepaald tijdsbestek documenten, pakketten en vracht over de hele wereld te vervoeren. Ze kunnen zelfs de douane-inklaring voor u afhandelen, op voorwaarde dat u hen schriftelijke instructies geeft. De instructies moeten duidelijk maken of deze agenten direct of indirect voor u optreden. Als uw bedrijf nieuw is en u nog steeds op zoek bent naar een douane-expediteur, kunt u er een vinden op de lijst met douane-expediteurs van HMRC.

HET AANGEVEN VAN IMPORT ZELF:
Als u zelf aangiften ten invoer doet, zijn er drie belangrijke dingen die u moet weten wanneer u van buiten het VK importeert: hoe u moet indienen, wanneer u moet indienen en welke vakken u moet invullen.een. 
a. Hoe indienen – Als u uw aangiften zelf indient, moeten deze elektronisch worden verzonden via het systeem Douane Afhandeling van Import en Export Freight (CHIEF). Hiervoor moet u zich eerst aanmelden om toegang te krijgen tot CHIEF en vervolgens kopen software van derden om aangiften elektronisch in te dienen via CHIEF.Bij het vervoeren van goederen in bagage of kleine voertuigen, moet u vooraf een volledige aangifte indienen als de goederen aan een van de volgende voorwaarden voldoen:- de waarde van goederen is meer dan 900 euro- de goederen wegen meer dan 1.000 kg- U verplaatst accijnsgoederen of goederen waarvoor beperkingen gelden- de goederen hebben een vergunning nodig- U bent van plan uitstel te eisen
b. Wanneer indienen – Onder normale omstandigheden moet een bedrijfseigenaar een volledige aangifte indienen wanneer goederen het VK binnenkomen. Verplaatst u uw goederen naar tijdelijke opslag onder douanetoezicht, dan kunnen ze 90 dagen in opslag blijven. Als de termijn van 90 dagen wordt overschreden, moet u de invoerrechten, btw en boete betalen.Het aangifteproces kan variëren als u de vereenvoudigde aangifteprocedure gebruikt of opereert onder een EIDR-machtiging (vermelding in het dossier van de aangever). Bij een no deal Brexit kunnen de goederen die u uit de EU importeert vertraging oplopen. Het kan namelijk langer duren dan normaal voordat u een volledige aangifte doet en uw invoerrechten en btw betaalt.Bij een no deal Brexit kun je nog steeds gebruikmaken van de roll on roll off ports of de Kanaaltunnel om goederen uit de EU te importeren. Het kan zijn dat u douaneaangiften moet overleggen en eventuele accijnzen of btw moet betalen.
c. In te vullen dozen – Elke keer dat u goederen verplaatst, moet u de goederencode in uw douaneaangiften vermelden. Mogelijk moet u ook de Customs Procedure Code (CPC) vermelden, die de toegepaste douaneregeling identificeert tijdens het verplaatsen van de goederen.

Stap 3: Maak Het Importeren Eenvoudiger!
Er zijn andere douaneprocedures die zijn ontworpen om het proces te stroomlijnen, zoals de Overeenkomst inzake gemeenschappelijk douanevervoer (CTC), die de manier waarop goederen worden vervoerd tussen of door de EU en de landen van gemeenschappelijk douanevervoer vereenvoudigt.Als uw bedrijf regelmatig goederen invoert, kunt u een rekening voor uitstel van invoerrechten aanmaken. Hiermee kunt u één betaling per tijdsinterval (bijvoorbeeld een maand) doen, in plaats van elke keer dat u iets importeert, te betalen. U kunt ook douanevergunningen krijgen, maar hiervoor heeft u een uitstelrekening nodig.

Stap 4: Controleer de te Betalen Belasting en Rechten!
Voor elke invoer moet u douanerechten en btw betalen. Als het VK de EU verlaat zonder akkoord, zullen de douanerechten voor invoer uit de EU en de rest van de wereld veranderen. Volgens rapporten zullen de tijdelijke tarieven tot 12 maanden van toepassing zijn totdat de regering haar openbare raadpleging heeft afgerond en een permanent tariefregime invoert. Op basis van waar de goederen vandaan komen, kunnen de tarieven worden geclassificeerd als preferentieel (ook wel meest begunstigde natie of MFN genoemd) en niet-preferentieel.Een preferentieel tarief zal van toepassing zijn op goederen als het land waaruit ze worden geïmporteerd een handelsovereenkomst heeft met het VK en deel uitmaakt van het algemene preferentieschema van het VK.Niet-preferentiële tarieven zullen van toepassing zijn op die landen die geen officiële handelsovereenkomst met het VK hebben en die uiteindelijk zullen moeten voldoen aan de handelsregels die zijn opgesteld door de Wereldhandelsorganisatie (WTO). Wat de niet-preferentiële tarieven zijn bij een no deal Brexit, leest u hier. Als u uw bedrijf voor btw heeft aangemeld, dan moet u uw btw bij invoer betalen bij het indienen van uw btw-aangifte. Als u in uw bedrijf alcohol, tabak of biobrandstoffen importeert, moet u ook accijnzen betalen. De tarieven voor accijnzen vindt u hier.

Stap 5: Krijg het Juiste Type Licentie voor het Soort Goederen dat u Importeert!
Afhankelijk van het soort goederen dat u naar het VK verhuist, kan het zijn dat u een speciale vergunning of certificaat nodig heeft. Voor sommige goederen moet u misschien zelfs inspectiekosten betalen. Hier kunt u controleren of u vergunningen nodig heeft voor de goederen die u invoert.

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BRITCHAM ONDERSTEUNING
Hier bij de Britse Kamer van Koophandel zullen we u blijven voorzien van de nodige informatie om al onze leden te helpen slagen. We zitten allemaal in hetzelfde schuitje en met de juiste plannen kan het vertrouwen van de consument worden hersteld. BritCham biedt ondersteuning, begeleiding en gespecialiseerde dekking voor zowel Brexit als COVID-19, inclusief webinars, workshops en evenementen die uw bedrijf de tools geven die het nodig heeft om door deze uitdagende periode te navigeren. Klik hier om te registreren: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

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Coronavirus Contaminates Cohort of Student Prospects

By Yasmine Lingmann

Business closures. Curfews. Social gatherings controlled. Face masks. Zoom fatigue. These are just a few of the consequences we are all having to accept in this never-ending Corona driven mess. But students are arguably one of the worst affected groups for two main reasons: they are the least likely to experience anything but mild symptoms, and these measures are therefore sacrificial; and the crucial opportunities and experiences needed for students to thrive and pave their way in the competitive world we live in are being snatched beneath our eyes- deteriorating the nations’ future workforce and economy.

I started working for the British Chamber of Commerce in July, right in the midst of it all, in a team of 6 student interns on our Erasmus year abroad as part of our university degree. Our interviews were held online during lockdown, with hopes that things would soon resume back to normal so that we could move to Brussels for the year. It’s now our third month of working remotely, having only met our colleagues virtually. This being said, we are lucky. As a team we have managed to get on despite only meeting online, and our colleagues have been nothing but accommodating and understanding. Many of our friends at university have had their year abroad cancelled altogether, or are unable to work remotely; having to settle for online learning courses that do not in any way make up for the loss of their Erasmus plans. Not only this- many of us are unable to receive the grant we have been promised, leaving students with little money to make the most of the year. Everything we had hoped for- exploring a new city, developing our foreign language skills, networking with professionals and learning from watching colleagues at work- has been taken away from us.

British students are paying the same price this year for worse educational development, economic prospects and social progression. With freshers struggling to settle in their new environments and unable to socialise: mental and physical health are at risk. This is the cohort that has already undergone significant hardship: they missed their last few months of school or college, were unable to sit their exams, and, many of whom were allocated A-level grades that in some cases bore no resemblance to what they had been predicted. University students have already been home from university since March and lost lecture hours due to teacher strikes throughout the year. Although the physical health of students is at low risk from Covid-19, their emotional, educational and economic wellbeing have been jeopardised more than any other age group’s.

The impacts this will have on the wider society are huge. In terms of domestic students, Resolution Foundation has revealed that more than a third of 18-24 year olds have been furloughed or lost their main job since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Employers are seeking 32% fewer entrants on apprentice or school leaver programmes than originally planned for this year, while graduate jobs have been cut by 12%. Internships and placements will also slump by 40%. There are already half a million young people unemployed and more than a million displaced from sectors most affected by Covid-19. The Institute for Employment Studies think that that in the medium term youth unemployment could exceed 2 million. A wide range of research suggests that spending more than six months unemployed at this age can have a significant long-term impact on their careers. Organisations such as Youth Employment UK are fighting to address the consequences Covid-19 will have on the wages and job prospects of ‘Corona Class of 2020’.

International students have been deeply impacted, too. This is significantly problematic given that in 2018/19 teaching of overseas students generated an estimated surplus of £1.7 billion or 43% in England and Northern Ireland combined, home student numbers have remained relatively static. China is by far the largest source of international students with just over 120,000 in 2018/19. Travel restrictions, as well as virtual lessons causing many students to defer or drop out, have caused a large fall in demand for British higher education from overseas. The short term and long term income generated by higher education to the national economy will continue to fall if changes are not made.

This being said- businesses are responding. According to a study done be LSE in July 2020, over 60% of firms adopted new digital technologies and management practices; and around a third invested in new digital capabilities. These process and product innovations are generally considered to have had a positive impact on performance, and businesses expect to maintain them post-crisis. This ‘Virtual Revolution’ offers many opportunities to technology prone students and according to most firms, will increase employee productivity rather than reduce the need for employees over time. Therefore, students can and should continue to be offered opportunities, and businesses will actually save more by doing so.

The Coronavirus Cohort will gain the strength and drive that businesses seek in their employees. This disruption will create new opportunities: a generation of students that have no choice but to adapt and innovate. Firms will need to give a helping hand to students through internships and work experience in order to get the economy back on track- but this effort is guaranteed to pay for itself for many years to come.

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Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. 
We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period. Click here to register: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events

Trade Negotiations: The Role of Private Stakeholders

By César Guerra Guerrero
Partner & Director of Trade Policy at Euraffex

The number of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) have surged in the last years. It is clear that applied tariff levels and the number of comprehensive trade agreements of a country determine its readiness to constructively engage in ambitious trade treaties. For example, it is relatively easy to strike deals with Singapore or Chile, but it is completely different with Mercosur. In my view, a successful conclusion of a process depends on the political will and the real room for manoeuvre to accommodate each other’s interests.

Most of the time, governments must make important and difficult decisions to bridge gaps, especially in the final stages of negotiations. Trade negotiators have the ability to present results in a way that shows the benefits and minimises concessions to justify their decisions, so that FTAs will always prove positive in countries, or blocks of countries, that are so lined up with the free trade agenda. However, this is not exempted from partisan backfire that would normally use political arguments to prevent moving forward on the trade agenda. As long as negotiators prove that sensitivities were protected by using alternative treatments and specific non-trade concerns were addressed somehow, countries would be inclined to make hard calls to close a deal.

In the meantime, the private sector- whether on the offensive or the defensive side- is faced with uncertainty. It is difficult to know how their products are going to be treated if they are part of the final package that would solve the most difficult issues to clench a deal. The reading and identification of true red lines is crucial for governments. Stakeholders play an important role to influence this vision. Using the example of the EU-UK trade negotiations, is the level playing field a true red line for the European Union or is it just the access to British fishing waters? What are the potential trade-offs all parties can live with? The answer is communication and creativity. The private sector must be part of the solution and governments should be open for feedback as it is in their best interests. The successful outcome for business sectors and individual companies often depends on the engagement with trade negotiators and making the case with sound arguments, whilst providing reasonable alternatives to the ideal outcome.

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Here at the British Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to update you with the necessary information to help all our members to succeed. 
We are all in this together, and with the right plans in place, consumer confidence can be restored. BritCham offers support, guidance and specialised coverage for both Brexit and COVID-19, including webinars, workshops and events that will give your firm the tools it needs to navigate through this challenging period. Click here to register: https://www.britishchamber.be/upcoming-events