ASM Calls for a Reevaluation of the UK's Customs Approach

According to ASM (Agency Sector Management), the UK government needs to take bold steps in revamping its digital border strategy, especially after the disappointing halt of the much-anticipated Single Trade Window (STW) initiative.

“While the STW was a promising start, its implementation fell short,” remarked Simon Adams, Program Manager at ASM. “We’re still grappling with disjointed systems and outdated data processes that inflate costs for businesses and create inefficiencies at our borders.”

Adams advocates for a more practical approach that emphasizes smarter data sharing among existing governmental frameworks instead of reverting to an imperfect ‘tell us once’ model. “By facilitating cross-departmental data reuse—like connecting customs declarations through CDS with Safety & Security protocols managed by the Home Office—we can eliminate needless duplication while ensuring compliance and maintaining high-quality data visibility,” he explained.

The technology needed to streamline trade is already available; what’s lacking is the political determination to make it happen.A cohesive data model along with standardized interfaces across all government border systems could revolutionize how UK businesses engage in global trade.

The STW was initially part of a broader vision outlined in the 2025 Border Strategy aimed at simplifying interactions between traders and UK border agencies. However, due to critical assessments from entities like the National Audit Office and increasing financial constraints, progress has stalled. This leaves freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other industry professionals without a comprehensive digital solution they were promised.

“The government should prioritize integrating existing resources,” Adams emphasized. “If we want to keep our competitive edge post-Brexit, any reforms in digital customs must be driven by robust data practices that are interoperable and developed collaboratively with industry stakeholders.”

Looking internationally, projects such as the EU’s Customs Data Hub illustrate an understanding of this necessary transformation through their detailed roadmaps and achievable timelines for delivery.

A similar strategic long-term vision is essential for the UK if it hopes to navigate these challenges effectively,” ASM concludes.