Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group

Suffolk Chamber International recognises the wealth of knowledge and experience that exists in the county and how valuable peer-to-peer networking can be to our members. Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group act as a catalyst for international trade activities of new and existing importers and exporters. International trading businesses get real value from peer-to-peer networking. SCITG will be the forum for sharing best practice, for hearing from local and national policymakers and thought leaders. As well as to encourage, promote and participate in local, regional and national initiatives that will enhance the knowledge and capabilities to develop members own international trade activities. 

SCITG 18th June 2024 - Challs International, Hadleigh

The aim of Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group (SCITG) is to share experiences to support international trade and make sure Suffolk businesses continue to grow and thrive. As well as hearing from policy and thought leaders. The meeting was run under Chatham House rules which allowed for an open and frank discussion. 

Our guest speaker Neil Bird from Gaston Schul gave an update on some of customs latest issues and changes including:
Boarder Target Operating Model (BTOM) – changes that came into effect from the 30^th April 2024. Such as: Plants, products of animal origin and high risk foods not of animal origin imported from the EU are now categorised according to risk, Goods of medium and high risk are now subject to Port Health inspections, and the need for exporters to provid export health certificates (EHC) and importers have to complete CHED (CommonHealth Entry Documents) for certain products. There was also mentione of the switch over from CHIEF to CDS and EU CBAM requirements, the expectation of the UK CBAM requirements and what this may means for Suffolk businesses.

The businesses had engaging conversations and discussions around the table on their custom challenges and knowledge sharing. Thank you to the group for their input and thank you to Stuart Gregory (board member of Suffolk Chamber and the MD of Wallis Shipping) for chairing the event.

The evening was hosted by Challs International Ltd. Challs international have been changing the way people clean for over 30 years and are experts in developing and manufacturing specialist cleaning products. They have successfully developed a portfolio of market leading brands across the globe such as Buster, Alkimi and Bin Buddy. Amazing to hear that it all started from a small bedroom. Thank you Edward Burchell for the tour of Challs International Ltd and for hosting us.