International Business News

As international trade continues to evolve and businesses seek greater security when trading overseas, Process Instruments (UK) Ltd, a Burnley-based global manufacturer of water analysis instrumentation has successfully completed a Letter of Credit transaction with support from East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce. Letters of Credit are one of the most secure payment methods available [...]

HMRC compliance is not optional. Following a £6.4 million settlement by Airbus for export control breaches, now is the time to review your procedures, staff knowledge and international trade processes. Airbus Operations Limited has paid a record £6.4 million compound settlement Is your business operating compliantly with HMRC. As a business owner, CEO, FD [...]

Following the entry into force of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement on the 15 July 2026, please note that UK exporters claiming preferential tariff treatment for goods exported to India must use an origin declaration completed by the exporter or producer. This is a self-certification process which must not be stamped, certified or endorsed by [...]

We are delighted to announce that Mandy Lockett, International Business Director, has been awarded the highly esteemed Fellow Membership (FCIEx) status by the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, a prestigious recognition of her exceptional professional achievements and significant contributions to her industry. Fellow Membership is a distinguished accolade reserved for professionals who [...]

After months of learning, networking and developing international business expertise, East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce's Summer Skills Bootcamp has officially come to an end. From May to July, delegates have taken part in a comprehensive programme designed to equip businesses with the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in international markets. The Bootcamp began [...]

Register your interest now with s.heywood@chamberelancs.co.uk or call on 01254 356454. Specialist funding is now available to support the training and development of your employees’ international trade skills. Like many of Lancashire’s leading businesses before you, your team can access this same level of support to strengthen their understanding of both exporting and importing [...]

The low value import threshold has been brought forward and will be implemented October 2028 Meaning goods valued at £135 or less will be subject to customs import duties. Get prepared now Item-Level Customs Data Requirements: The new system may require item-level data in customs declarations for low-value consignments. This would increase transparency and [...]

Customs intermediaries: introduction of Mandatory Registration - Closes 21 September 2026 This consultation seeks views on new mandatory registration for customs intermediaries who submit customs declarations on behalf of traders. Scope of this consultation This consultation seeks views on: the proposed scope of mandatory registration which intermediaries should be in scope or excluded the [...]

The European Council has confirmed a significant change to customs policy, introducing a fixed €3 duty on small parcels entering the EU. The measure will come into effect from 1 July 2026 and primarily targets low-value goods imported via e-commerce. What’s Changing? Under the new rules, all consignments valued at less than €150 will [...]

Businesses trading internationally are being urged to prepare for significant updates to commodity codes set to take effect on 1 January 2028. It remains the responsibility of each company, in line with HMRC requirements, to ensure the correct commodity codes are used on all exports and imports in accordance with the UK Trade Tariff. [...]