New HMRC declaration system for exporters from 30th March

Any trader making export declarations needs to move to a new HMRC system from March 30 this year. The CHIEF system is being fully replaced by the Customs Declaration System, and anyone who has been using the old system will now have to move across.

There has been a transition period from the old to the new system, but it ends on this date. You will need your Government Gateway ID to subscribe to the system, plus:

• Your EORI number that starts with GB or XI — if you do not have one you can apply for an EORI number when you subscribe — you’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria to register for an XI number.
• Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)
• The address for your business that’s held on customs records.
• Your National Insurance number (if you’re an individual or sole trader).
• The date you started your business.

What happens once I’ve subscribed to the new system?

Once you have subscribed to the new system, you will either gain access within two hours, if HMRC doesn’t need to make any additional checks, or five days if it does. It is best to give yourself plenty of time in case your access is delayed, so you don’t find yourself needing to move goods but not having access to the right paperwork.

If you have already subscribed to the new system for either imports or exports, you don’t need to sign up again.

UK Export Finance doubles limit to £10m for traders

Small businesses looking to access funding to expand their exporting opportunities can now fast-track their applications with UK Export Finance, the Government’s export credit agency, and apply for twice the previous amount. The limit available now is £10m.

The move makes it “easier than ever” to sell into international markets, according to the Government, as the UKEF has now expanded its ‘auto-inclusion’ scheme which offers fast-track access to products such as the General Export Facility.

The payment terms have also increased from two to five years under the scheme, which increases the repayment flexibility available to small businesses too.

How does a business access this funding?

To access this funding, a business would need to speak to a participating bank, but the auto-inclusion removes the need for a manual intervention by UKEF, so the funding should be accessible quickly.

If you’d like to know more about these changes to exporting and how we can help you navigate your exporting journey, contact Mosaic International today!

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Understanding SDG 13: Combatting climate change

Sustainable Development Goal 13[2], established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, emphasises the imperative to combat climate change. Its mission is clear: take urgent action to address the environmental challenges threatening our planet’s future. Climate change is a global issue, and addressing it requires a collaborative effort from businesses, governments, and individuals alike.

This is where we come in at Mosaic International, serving as a key player in guiding businesses toward a sustainable and resilient future. Our focus on Net Zero strategies aligns seamlessly with Sustainable Development Goal 13, as we actively work towards limiting and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

The interconnected web of sustainability goals

At Mosaic International, we recognise that the pursuit of Net Zero is not just about reducing carbon emissions but is a holistic approach that intertwines with multiple Sustainable Development Goals.

For instance, transitioning to renewable energy sources (Sustainable Development Goal 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy[3]) not only reduces emissions but also fosters job creation and economic growth (Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth[4]). Furthermore, sustainable agricultural practices, another aspect of the Net Zero journey, contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 2[5] (Zero Hunger) and Sustainable Development Goal 15[6] (Life on Land).

Legislation: Navigating the future landscape

In an era where sustainability is not just a buzzword but a necessity, businesses face an imminent need to adapt to changing legislation. We understand that future-proofing your business involves staying ahead of the regulatory curve. With increased taxation and potential penalties for non-compliance looming, the embrace of Net Zero strategies becomes not only an ethical choice but a business imperative.

The emphasis on adapting to changing legislation, future-proofing businesses, and embracing Net Zero strategies aligns with the broader objective of addressing climate change and promoting sustainability in Sustainable Development Goal 13[7].

Mosaic International’s approach to crafting a Net Zero future

At Mosaic International, we distinguish ourselves by offering comprehensive solutions to businesses aiming to embark on their Net Zero journey. Our localised supplier audits, covering specific issues or the entire supplier system, ensure that businesses are prepared for the challenges of a sustainable future.

In Sustainable Development Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns[8], the focus on local supplier audits, sustainability challenges, and meticulous analysis of various aspects (from physical premises visits to cybersecurity controls) aligns with the goal of ensuring responsible consumption and production.

The collaboration between Mosaic International and businesses to create impactful action plans reflects the importance of partnerships to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 17: Global Partnership for Sustainable Development[9]. Our auditors, equipped with local knowledge and a deep understanding of global trends, work closely with businesses to create impactful action plans.

Taking the first step on your journey

Our commitment to sustainability is exemplified through our focus on helping businesses analyse current carbon emissions, identify the benefits of Net Zero strategies, and transform their operations for a competitive advantage. By embracing sustainability, businesses can access carbon credits, reduce dependence on the national grid, and enhance their reputation as responsible entities.

In a world where every business will be affected by the Net Zero transition, we at Mosaic International position ourselves as guides, helping businesses navigate the complexities of new legislation and emerging environmental standards.

A sustainable future with Mosaic International

As the business landscape evolves towards sustainability, Mosaic International emerges as a valuable ally for enterprises seeking to embrace Net Zero initiatives. Our expertise, comprehensive audits, and actionable plans not only ensure compliance with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (and beyond) but also position businesses to thrive in a future where sustainability is not just a goal but a prerequisite for success.

To embark on your Net Zero journey, contact Mosaic International today at 07885 784783 or email kiley.tan@mosaicint.co.uk. The future of your business and the planet may depend on it!

[1] https://sdgs.un.org/

[2] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal13

[3] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal7

[4] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal8

[5] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal2

[6] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal15

[7] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal13

[8] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal12

[9] https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal17

***The content of this publication has not been approved by the United Nations and does not reflect the views of the United Nations or its officials or Member States.***

www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment 

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As the world collectively takes action to combat climate change, various measures are being introduced to promote sustainable practices and reduce carbon emissions. One such measure gaining traction is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)[1]. This mechanism is designed to tackle the issue of carbon leakage and level the playing field for businesses operating within and outside the UK.

In this blog, we will explore what CBAM is, its implications for UK businesses, and how Mosaic International’s net zero offering can play a vital role in navigating this transformative landscape.

What is the CBAM?

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, also known as Carbon Border Adjustment or CBAM, is an initiative aimed at ensuring that the carbon pricing applied to domestically produced goods is also applied to imports from countries with less stringent emission reduction policies.

By doing so, CBAM intends to prevent “carbon leakage,” which occurs when businesses relocate production to countries with weaker environmental regulations, ultimately undermining global efforts to combat climate change.[2]

How does CBAM relate to UK businesses?

For UK businesses, CBAM has significant implications, both in terms of challenges and opportunities. As the UK is committed to achieving its ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2050[3], CBAM can help safeguard domestic industries from unfair competition and prevent the offshoring of emissions-intensive processes to countries with lax environmental regulations.

However, it also means that businesses exporting to the EU or other countries implementing similar measures will need to prepare for new carbon-related requirements. It could potentially lead to additional costs for businesses that do not meet stringent carbon standards, making it crucial for companies to align their operations with sustainable practices and reduce carbon footprints.

What UK businesses need to be aware of

UK businesses should be aware that CBAM is likely to have a significant impact on their operations, especially if they engage in international trade. Some key points to consider are:

• Emission Reporting and Verification
  • Exporters may need to provide detailed carbon emission reports for their products, and these reports might need third-party verification to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Carbon Pricing
  • Companies might be subjected to carbon pricing on their exported products, which could increase costs for non-compliant businesses.
• Supply Chain Management
  • Understanding the carbon intensity of your supply chain becomes critical as CBAM might factor in emissions associated with the entire lifecycle of the product.

Linking CBAM with Mosaic International’s Net Zero offering

Mosaic International is at the forefront of helping businesses achieve their net-zero goals through our comprehensive net zero consultancy services. This service aligns perfectly with CBAM’s objectives, as it empowers companies to reduce their carbon footprint, enhance sustainability efforts, and ensure compliance with emerging environmental regulations.

By engaging with Mosaic International’s net zero services, UK businesses can:

• Implement Sustainable Practices
  • Mosaic International offers tailored sustainability solutions, enabling businesses to adopt eco-friendly processes and reduce emissions throughout their operations.
• Carbon Footprint Assessment
  • Mosaic International conducts thorough carbon footprint assessments, helping businesses gain a clear understanding of their carbon emissions and identify areas for improvement.
• Net Zero Strategy Development
  • With the guidance of Mosaic International, businesses can create robust net-zero strategies that align with their unique goals and timelines.

What can businesses do to prepare for CBAM?

To prepare for the implementation of CBAM, UK businesses can also take proactive steps now, such as:

• Conduct a Carbon Footprint Assessment
  • Understanding your current carbon emissions is the first step in reducing them.
  • Engaging with Mosaic International can help businesses gain clarity on their carbon footprint and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Adopt Sustainable Practices
  • Implementing sustainable practices and technologies can significantly reduce a business’s carbon footprint.
  • Mosaic International’s expertise can assist companies in making informed decisions on adopting renewable energy sources, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable supply chain practices.
• Stay Informed
  • As CBAM evolves, regulations and requirements may change.
  • Keeping abreast of updates and engaging with sustainability experts will be crucial for businesses to stay compliant and competitive.

How Mosaic International can help

Mosaic International is dedicated to supporting businesses on their journey to net zero and sustainability. Our comprehensive net zero offering encompasses carbon reduction strategies, sustainable business practices, and expert guidance to navigate the evolving landscape of environmental regulations.

Whether it’s calculating and reducing carbon footprints, implementing renewable energy solutions, or developing net-zero action plans, Mosaic International has the expertise and resources to help businesses not only prepare for CBAM but also thrive in a greener, more sustainable future.

—

As the Carbon Borders Adjustment Mechanism takes shape, UK businesses need to proactively prepare for its implementation and the potential impact on their operations. Embracing sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions will be vital for companies to remain competitive and compliant.

Mosaic International’s net zero offering provides businesses with the necessary tools and support to embrace sustainability, navigate the complexities of CBAM, and build a greener future. By collaborating with Mosaic International, businesses can not only meet regulatory requirements but also demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship and contribute to a more sustainable world.

Contact Mosaic International to find out how we can work together.

[1] https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism_en

[2] https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/addressing-carbon-leakage-risk-to-support-decarbonisation

[3] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/net-zero-strategy

The post Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism appeared first on Mosaic International.

Join us between 9am and 11am at the AMP Technology Centre in Rotherham to learn more about the impacts net zero will have on your business, and how you can start making plans for your business now.

As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, it’s essential for businesses to understand the implications of the net-zero movement. At this event, you will learn about the practical steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort to tackle climate change.

But where do you start?

To enable you to realise the benefits from adopting a net zero strategy, Mosaic International are holding an introductory seminar aimed at business owners, operations directors, and senior decision makers from the Sheffield City Region, who are (or will be) responsible for net zero within their organisation.

The event will cover:

• Reporting on Scope 3 emissions
  • How can you effectively monitor your supply chain?
• The voluntary carbon market
  • What are carbon credits and how can they be used?
• Banking requirements
  • How will carbon emissions affect banks’ lending requirements?
• The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
  • How will goods from countries deemed to be less environmentally stringent be taxed?
• Spending on renewables
  • How can we reduce our reliance on oil and gas for energy supplies?

This change is real and happening right now, so it is essential to determine how net zero will impact your business and its future operations, not only from an environmental perspective but also financially.

You will have the opportunity to hear from experts in the field and network with other like-minded business leaders.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights and make a difference in the fight against climate change!

Register here to secure your free place

Places are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Please direct any questions to Kiley Tan on 07885 784783 or kiley.tan@mosaicint.co.uk

The post Net Zero & Your Business – Impacts of Net Zero To Your Business – Wednesday 19th April 2023 appeared first on Mosaic International.

But where do you start?

To enable you to realise the benefits from adopting a net zero strategy, Mosaic International are holding an introductory webinar aimed at business owners, operations directors, and senior decision makers from the Sheffield City Region, who are (or will be) responsible for net zero within their organisation.

The webinar will cover:

• The scientific evidence for climate change
• What net zero means and how it impacts on your business
• Understanding how your organisation is contributing to climate change
• How to take the first steps on your net zero journey

It will soon become difficult for businesses to opt out and bury their head in the sand. All businesses will, at some point, be affected by net zero. This means acting now to ensure you are doing business stays ahead of the curve and gain competitive advantage.

The details:

Delivered by Kiley Tan, Managing Director of Sheffield based business consultancy, Mosaic International, this free to attend, 1 hour webinar will provide you with a key insight into net zero for business, including a Q&A session.

Register your place on Eventbrite by following this link.

Date: Friday 20th January 2023

Time: 8:30am to 9:30am

Venue: Online (Zoom)

Places are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Please direct any questions to Kiley Tan on 07885 784783 or kiley.tan@mosaicint.co.uk

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In our latest blog, we take a look at how travel disruption can affect a supply chain, and why having a plan B is just as important as your plan A.

Servicing your customers and completing orders if your supply chain breaks down

With the current issues facing air travel in the UK at present, there will be no surprise that the delays and cancellations in flights are not only affecting those wanting to take a vacation abroad, but also businesses who rely on air travel for trade.

Since the pandemic, airline companies laid off 400,000 members of staff worldwide, but now the demand for international travel is getting back to normal again, airlines are becoming overwhelmed due to a lack of human resource. This lack of planning has meant that in the UK alone there have been over 900 flight cancellations since May.

There are, of course, other modes of transport, such as shipping, but as we saw with the Ever Given and the Suez Canal in 2021, unexpected problems can arise without warning whatever your preferred mode of transport.

Do you have a back-up if a supply problem arises?

As well as supply chain disruptions caused by travel delays, those who travel abroad for business to make links with customers, make deals, and check on how companies are progressing in other countries a lack of physical presence can also cause issues.

In the physical supply chain, there are options with an on the ground supplier audit service. For example, can you service your customers and complete orders if your supply chain breaks down?

The issues we are facing now with travel disruptions could mean that your product either won’t get where you need it or will be delayed to the point where it is damaging to your business.

Do you have a plan B or a backup supplier in another country if this happens?

If you do, that’s great! But you will need to think about whether your plan B supplier can give you the same amount of quality, and cost-effective product as supplier A. If you do not have a backup supplier, now is the time to source one – and we can help.

Supplier Auditing

At Mosaic International we have an ‘on the ground’ supplier audit service, that is physically based in the local territory of your supplier.

Having a locally based supplier auditor offers major advantages; they can immediately respond to changing circumstances, such as transport blockages and delays, but one of the biggest advantages is they understand the local culture.

This gives our clients a major competitive advantage. Those businesses that have been dealing with this region for some time will know how different working practices are abroad compared to the UK.

Looking at new markets

Global purchasing is on the increase and the Pacific Rim is going to be on most importers list. Here at Mosaic International we can help your business develop in Southeast Asian markets.

We can support you in starting the process of determining which part of the region your products could enter, who your suppliers should be and how to exploit these opportunities.

The reality is this is a medium to long term project – and if you don’t start, you’ll never reap the benefits. While it is never too late, it is also equally true that it is never too early to start!

For more information about our localised supply chain, visit the supplier auditing section of our website or contact Kiley Tan on 07885 784783 or kiley.tan@mosaicint.co.uk for more info.

The post Supply Chain Issues – Do you have a back-up plan if problems arise? appeared first on Mosaic International.

Climate change is the biggest challenge of our lifetime

According to scientists at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperature increase must be limited to no more than 1.5°C to preserve our current way of life. This can only be realised if the world can achieve carbon net zero by 2050. In recent years and despite pledges by governments across the world, carbon emissions globally have increased rather than decrease.

The UK have pledged to be carbon net-zero by 2050 but in order to accomplish this goal, it is likely that all parts of the economy (including SMEs) will have to undertake initiatives to measure, minimise and offset their carbon emissions. Currently, only listed and larger companies have obligations to do so.

The research I am conducting is to determine how Yorkshire based manufacturing SMEs are dealing with net zero, how prepared they are, their source of information, their drivers and constraints for achieving net zero and whether they are measuring carbon emissions in their supply chain. By completing the survey, you can contribute to an overall picture of what can be done to accelerate net zero within the industry, in the region, and beyond.

Your response matters

These are complex issues, but I believe solutions must be found. At stake is not simply profitability and continued success of manufacturing in the region but the world as we know it today.

The survey can be found here

It will take 10 – 15 minutes to complete.

Please feel free to forward this survey to your contacts in other manufacturing SMEs in Yorkshire.

If you have any questions arising from the survey, please do not hesitate to contact Kiley at kbttan1@sheffield.ac.uk or 07885 784783

Thank you again for your attention and participation.

The post Net Zero Preparedness of Yorkshire Manufacturing SME – Survey appeared first on Mosaic International.

After the referendum vote to leave the EU in 2016 was cast, a new word was coined into our vocabulary, ‘Brexit.’ And although it wasn’t until January 2020 that the UK officially left the EU, our government is now ready to join a club that has around 500 million people in it, has a combined GDP of $13.5 trillion, and generates more than 13% of the world’s income.

So, what is this illusive club? The ‘Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership’ or CPTPP as it is more commonly known, and it is a free trade agreement (FTA) between 11 countries around the Asia-Pacific region. The UK is on a fast track to join and become the first non-founding country to do so.

Who are the current members and what advantages are there to the UK joining?

The key members are Canada, Japan, Malaysia, and Australia but also countries like Vietnam with whom the UK expects to supply digital technology such as 5G and smart cities. In fact, as part of the drive to help UK technology businesses develop trading relationships with the region, the UK government has allocated £8m to launch the Digital Trade Network.

As with all trade agreements, it’s about reducing or eliminating barriers to trading with each other. That includes tariffs and import charges, however, unlike the EU, the CPTTP is not a single market and therefore trading partners can impose their own standards and protect certain domestic products such as Japan’s rice and Canada’s dairy industry.

Why is the UK involved when it’s not an Asian-Pacific country?

As a former member of the EU the UK has retained FTAs with many of the CPTPP members and is currently negotiating with Malaysia and Brunei while agreements in principle have been reached with Australia and New Zealand in June and October 2021, respectively.

According to the UK government, we want to be known as the European country with the most complementary trading relationships around the region. They also say that the UK has created more technology entrepreneurs outside of the US, China, and India.

This is one of the reasons why they are creating initiatives such as the Digital Trade Network, supporting local businesses who are looking to develop trading partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region.

What are the advantages of belonging to the CPTTP?

The main advantage for the UK is that it gives UK businesses a springboard into the Indo-Pacific economic powerhouse.

With no, or lower duties, and easier cross border clearance, CPTTP gives UK businesses access to new markets. This is good news as the region’s strength as part of the world’s supply chain would allow UK businesses to find high quality supplies at competitive prices and lower trade barriers. And these trade barriers would also translate to UK sales into the region.

Are there any other advantages of the UK being a member?

In addition to support for UK businesses, CPTPP countries will have the same opportunities as domestic businesses when investing in local projects. Given that in 2017, its members accounted for £1 in every £12 of foreign investment in the UK, we expect cross-border investments to continue to grow.

Anything else?

The UK government says that being a part of a dynamic, fast-growing region, with easier trading agreements, will provide potential for future economic growth. This is especially relevant for countries such as Malaysia and Brunei that, so far, do not have an FTA with the UK. There are also the distinct possibility that other economically buoyant countries such as South Korea and the Philippines will join.

What about USA?

Trump withdrew the US agreement to join when elected in 2016 and President Biden, while initially being warm to the idea, has now said it’s on hold for the time being. Should the US change its mind, then this could potentially open a back door trade deal between our two countries. This would then mean that the enlarged CPTTP would account for more than 40% of global GDP – a major force in world trading.

What does membership mean for UK businesses?

As we’ve been saying for some time, this region offers many trading advantages for UK businesses. Malaysia, for example already has a well-established trading route with the UK as well as a strong willingness to do business with us.

At present, the UK does not have an FTA with the country, but would have as a member of the CTPPT, thus increases the opportunities for local businesses. It’s a growing market with low labour costs, highly skilled workforce, and a diverse range of suppliers.

For UK companies looking to source goods or establish a supply chain partner there, the outlook certainly appears promising.

Global purchasing is on the increase and the Pacific Rim is going to be on most importers list. The challenge for local businesses, especially under the current Covid restrictions, is how to ensure supply reliability, consistent product quality and a trouble-free smooth delivery.

This is where Mosaic International can help. We can help you start the process of determining which part of the region your products could enter, who your suppliers should be and how to exploit these opportunities. The reality is this is a medium to long term project – and if you don’t start, you’ll never reap the benefits – as they say: while it is never too late, it is also equally true that it is never too early to start!

If you have suppliers, but you are struggling to carry out audit inspections, we offer a physical supply chain auditor that is ‘on the ground’ in the local territory. We already have an established service in Malaysia, and this will only be expanded throughout the CPTTP region in due course.

For more information about our localised supply chain, visit the supplier auditing pages of our website or contact Kiley Tan on 07885 784783 or kiley.tan@mosaicint.co.uk

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