Minister comments on changes to the Duty Reimbursement Scheme
Date published:
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has commented on changes to the Duty Reimbursement Scheme (DRS).
The Duty Reimbursement Scheme was introduced as a result of the Windsor Framework and is operated by HMRC. It allows traders and importers to reimburse the payment of EU customs duties paid on goods moved into Northern Ireland that were not sold or used in the EU.
The Minister has advocated for improvements to the scheme following her engagement with businesses, including through her Tariff Working Group, on their experiences accessing and navigating the scheme. These challenges were also highlighted in the Independent Review of the Windsor Framework, conducted by Lord Murphy in 2025.
The Minister said:
“I have been pressing the British Government consistently over the past year to act to improve the operation of the Duty Reimbursement Scheme, and while it has been frustratingly slow, I welcome that steps are being taken to address this.
“I have been working collaboratively with businesses on this issue and will continue to do so. It is important that we assess the impact of these changes and highlight where further efficiencies can be achieved particularly around the applicable criteria, data and evidence requirements.”
HMRC will be responsible for communicating the changes to businesses. In addition to linking the DRS with the Customs Duty Waiver Scheme, the changes include streamlining processes and introducing more flexibility for businesses where claims relate to mixed or pooled stocks. It will potentially lower administrative and financial burdens for NI businesses.
Notes to editors:
- Further information on the Duty Reimbursement Scheme is available at Apply to claim a repayment or remission of import duty, or reclaim state aid used on ‘at risk’ goods brought into Northern Ireland - GOV.UK
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