Responding to the news that HMRC is pausing the development of the Single Trade Window, Emma Rowland, Trade Policy Advisor at the Institute of Directors, said:

“It is frustrating to see the Government’s decision to halt the development of the Single Trade Window due to financial constraints following the Budget, particularly given extensive industry engagement and the project’s proximity to completion.

“According to our own data, paperwork remains the largest obstacle for organisations involved in international exports. The Single Trade Window, designed to streamline border processes through a unified platform, has the potential to significantly ease this administrative burden on firms, making importing and exporting more efficient. Additionally, it could enhance data collection to better monitor and understand UK trade flows.

“Last week’s Budget found scope to hire 5,000 new compliance officers at HMRC. We urge the Government to prioritise the Single Trade Window in the upcoming Spring Spending Review to facilitate trade for all UK companies.”