Post-Brexit trade between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI) has been a complex puzzle. The Windsor Framework, announced in February 2023, aims to simplify the process by adjusting the old Northern Ireland Protocols.

Key Updates in the Windsor Framework

1. Green Lane Movement:

Goods staying in NI now bypass burdensome checks and documentation. Businesses benefit from reduced compliance, including streamlined agrifood movement and tariff-free steel trade.

2. Simplified Parcels:

Shipping to NI just got easier. Personal parcels and small-scale business deliveries are now free from complicated customs processes.

3. Aligned VAT and Excise Rules:

Northern Ireland now shares VAT flexibility with the rest of the UK, reducing administrative friction for businesses.

4. Streamlined Medicine Supply:

NI no longer follows EU medicine approval rules, cutting costs and ensuring seamless healthcare supply chains.

5. Enhanced Local Control:

With the “Stormont Brake,” NI has the power to block EU rules deemed unsuitable, strengthening democratic accountability.

Why Developers Should Care

Trade compliance and logistics software solutions will need updates to accommodate these changes. Developers in trade tech must adapt to new customs, VAT, and certification rules to keep platforms efficient and user-friendly.
Explore the full guide to master GB-NI trade changes!