Subject: The use of the meursing code

The use of meursing codes determines the applicable TARIC code and duty rate for goods imported into the EU. The meursing code is an additional code required for certain imported products. The food's milk fat, milk proteins, starch, and glucose content are the determining factors. UK exporters to the EU are obliged to have their products tested to obtain the code and the presentation of a detailed certificate is mandatory. Please be guided by COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 900/2008.

In order to facilitate trade, Customs is currently accepting and chasing economic operators to provide the certificates later instead of at importation stage. However, not all importers are providing the requested certificate. This could be contributed to various factors, but mostly due to the exporter's reluctance to provide the certificate and cooperate with the EU importers.

Brexit is not an excuse for non-adherence to the regulations. Please be advised that economic operators who have pending queries with the Post Release Unit must ensure that they have them resolved at the earliest. Failing to do so, consignments where the certificates are required will be withheld by Customs at importation stage.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.