The deadline for applying for customs and tariff support has been extended to 31 January 2021, the Government has announced.
The grant funding scheme, launched in September 2019, was set to close on 31 January 2020.
Under the scheme, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can apply for a share of funding to support recruitment, improve IT capability and train staff to submit customs declarations.
According to the most recent figures, the scheme has helped businesses by providing around £18.5 million in funding to date.
Commenting on the support, Jesse Norman, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said: “The UK will be leaving the single market and customs union at the end of 2020, and businesses will need to prepare to submit customs declarations.
“Customs agents, freight forwarders and fast parcel operators can take advantage of the extended period by applying for grants to help them scale up and get ready.
“Customs processes can be handled by a business directly, but most businesses currently trading outside Europe use a customs agent.”
To get started, your business must be established in or have a branch in the UK and not have previously failed to meet its tax obligations. Applications can be made for a number of eligible projects, the criteria of which can be found here.
For help applying for grant funding or preparing to trade after the Brexit transitional period, get in touch with our expert team today.
