Currently, the UK benefits from the freedom of movement of people, services and goods within the EU, eliminating duties and other restrictions. The CTI estimates that Europe supplies 87% of all the wood and wood-products imported into the UK. Source: Timberbiz
Europe accounts for only 57% of sawn hardwood supplies, with North America (20%), Africa (12%), Asia (9%) and South America (2%) providing the rest.
The UK Government have provided a Trading timber guidance page on what would happen to importers and exporters from the 1 January 2021.
From 1 January 2021, there will be a need to show imports from the EU and European Economic Area (EEA) have been legally harvested. To that it is legally harvested timber, you will need to carry out due diligence. If you’re exporting timber to the EU or EEA, you may need to supply documentation about the source and legality of your timber.
This is so EU and EEA-based customers can meet the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) due diligence rules. Due diligence systems will vary business by business.
The UK will see another year of uncertainty and risks that will change the face of the economy and society for years to come. No matter what happens, the Timber Trade Federation will continue lobbying Government and supporting members to ensure the best Brexit deal for the UK timber industry.
