The UK exports a tremendous volume of wholesale second hand books. Evidencing origin for these can prove extremely difficult for businesses, as they are typically sold by weight or quantity without titles being specified for low value, generally around £1.00 per book.

The National Certification Group – of which the East Lancashire Chamber is an elected board member – is responsible for governing standards and policy in UK Certificates of Origin, and have issued a new ruling on the 18 August 2023. From this date onwards, wholesale second-hand books which have been collected, sorted, and packaged for shipment in the UK will now obtain UK origin.

Marie White MIEx, International Business Specialist, commented on the latest ruling:

“Reviewing difficult and exceptional origin cases, which now includes wholesale second-hand books, is a key responsibility undertaken as a North West member of the National Certification Group.

“However, this new ruling must not be confused with second hand books sold by title, in small quantities or of high value. Businesses exporting titled books will still need to evidence their origin in the normal manner, as they are not affected by this new ruling.”

If you need to discuss origin of your products with one of our Certification team, contact 01254 356448 or email info@ecert@chamberelancs.co.uk.

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