Russian Steel Sanctions

From 30 September 2023, European sanctions against a large proportion of Russian steel products came into force. This means that neither steel nor stainless steel products originating in Russia may be imported into the EU. From now, importers into the EU will also have to prove that their products do not contain Russian steel.

The fact that goods have been processed in the UK and acquired either preferential or non-preferential UK origin does not exempt goods from these sanctions. If they contain Russian steel or stainless steel they will be affected.

UK Government guidance can be found here which includes a list of HS codes considered in scope for these sanctions.

Traders should be prepared to have documentation available to demonstrate evidence of a good’s supply chain, which must be consistent with the prohibitions under the regulations.

Evidence requested to be provided through documentation could include:

• The country of origin of the iron and steel products processed in the third country (or third countries) after the fact
• The date that the iron and steel product left its country of origin
• The country(s) and facility(s) where processing has taken place.

An example of evidence may include, but is not limited to, a Mill Test Certificate (MTC), or Mill Test Certificates (MTCs) where the relevant information cannot be summarised in a single document.

BCC Lobbying

We are aware that these new sanctions are causing significant issues for UK traders and the British Chambers of Commerce have been lobbying various UK Government and EU bodies to clarify and simplify the process. William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, met with the DBT Minister Lord Minto last Monday and the DBT/FCDO Special Advisor Victoria Hewson and they said they would take the issue away for further consideration. It is an EU policy so the UK cannot directly influence its implementation, but it can be raised in the normal diplomatic channels and if it is affecting areas in the TCA through relevant TCA specialised committees.

William also contacted the EU Embassy about this they will notify DG Trade in the European Commission in Brussels this week about the escalation of sanctions compliance difficulties.

Document Checking Workshops
Thursday 9 November, 10.00am-4.00pm

As part of International Trade Week, we are holding a document checking workshops at our Chamber Offices in Oakington, where you can visit us to obtain face to face training and guidance on completing and creating a number of key international trade documents.

10.00-11.00am
This session will help you to create and apply for a Certificate of Origin (UK and Arab) and a EUR1 Movement Certificate.

2.15-3.00pm
The afternoon session will explain what a manufacturer/supplier declaration should look like, and how to ensure you obtain a valid document that is sufficient to be able to verify origin when presented alongside a Certificate of Origin application.

As part of this day we are also offering 1-2-1 sessions with one of our experts (30 minute slots) - FREE to Members, and only £15.00 (plus VAT) for Non-members. You can use your timeslot to discuss any type of trade document you need help with or want to understand better, and you can even bring a document along to discuss!

Booking is first come first served so don’t delay!

To book your place, please click here.

Preference Utilisation webinar
Wednesday 18 October, 2.00-3.00pm

Ever heard of “preference” in trade? It’s like rolling out the red carpet for certain products based on where they’re from. If your products align with the origin rules in a Trade Agreement, it can unlock the door to reduced tariffs, more lenient quotas, and favourable trade terms.

In simpler terms, meeting origin requirements in an agreement grants your product “preference.” This means you’re paying lower tariffs than those non-qualifying goods.

High utilisation rates signal businesses are able to comply with preferential rules of origin, qualifying for tariff perks. On the flip side, low utilisation might mean some hurdles are getting in the way of tapping into these benefits.

Join our webinar, as we dive into the details, guiding you on how to leverage these benefits to your advantage.

You can view the full list of all our training courses on the Chamber website.

Courses can also be tailored to meet your company’s specific requirements. For more information about a bespoke course for your company, which can be delivered remotely or in person, please contact the Chamber on 01223 237414.

SAVE THE DATE

The BCC took part in an industry roundtable with Minister Lord Callanan on the future of the Emissions Trading Scheme and impacts upon trade.

The BCC had further discussions with the UK’s India Negotiating Team on our priorities for the trade negotiations ongoing with India.

Last week was OECD Trade Week - alongside meetings in Paris there was also a publication of a report on digital trade which aligns with the proposals in the BCC Trade Manifesto.