The Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Regulation-Extension of clearance checks to all products from 1 March 2010

ITS reported at the end of 2009 about the introduction of the IUU regime and what this could mean for importers as well as clarification of procedures for importers. Initially there were to be two stages of implementation, the first from 25 January 2010 and the second was awaiting a date to begin. The powers that be have decided that the full rollout of the customs clearance procedures to all qualifying imports will now be implemented from 1 March 2010.

What must I do as importer?

For imports of fish and fish products which require a catch certificate under IUU controls, the HMRC National Clearance Hub will require authorisation for release by the relevant Port Health or local authority to confirm that IUU checks have been completed before clearance can be granted. This will now apply consignments arriving by all modes of transport and at all points of entry in the UK from 1 March 2010.

What evidence will I require for my goods to be cleared?

One of the following three forms will be required:

• A copy of the IUU compliant catch certificate or multiple certificate summary document with a UK Port Health/Local Authority/Animal Health endorsement either faxed or e-mailed to NCH by the importer, his agent or the relevant Port Health or Local Authority, depending on the current local practice for notifying the results of veterinary checks on animal products and live animals/fish.

• An electronic coded message generated through the port inventory system by Port Health at certain maritime ports.

• A standard Port Health document confirming that the consignment is IUU compliant or not within the scope of the IUU scheme, either faxed or emailed to NCH by the importer or his agent or directly from Port Health depending on current local practice.

What must I fill out on the Customs Declaration (SAD)?

Importers of products that fill within the scope of the IUU Regulation are required to enter in Box 44 of the Customs declaration that either:

• An IUU catch certificate is present by entering document code C673 in Box 44 and the catch certificate number(s) or;
• That the goods do not require an IUU catch certificate requirement by entering document code Y927 in Box 44.

Please note that the same codes must also be entered in Box 44 of export declarations of products covered by the IUU regulation.

Approved Economic Operators (APEO)

The IUU regulation provides that an importer who is APEO approved will not be required to present catch certificates at import (although the certificates will need to be held and filed appropriately).

Please note: APEO should not be confused with Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status. To qualify for APEO status a business must first hold a Customs AEO certificate as well as meeting other conditions. Applications for APEO status are not yet open in the UK but HMRC will advise shortly when the application process will begin.

How can ITS help?

If you are unsure about the implementation of the IUU regulation or how it may affect you please feel free to Contact Us on (01905) 619229 or alternatively email us at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .