EORI: A Crucial Requirement for Trade in Great Britain and Its Link to Organic Certification under EU Regulation 2018/848

As businesses navigate the complex world of international trade, ensuring compliance with customs requirements and organic certification is vital. One of the most essential tools for businesses trading with or within Great Britain is the EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number. In the context of the organic sector, especially in light of the UK’s exit from the European Union, understanding the role of EORI and its connection to the Organic Certification Regulation (EU) 2018/848 is critical for maintaining both compliance and market access.

What is an EORI Number?

The EORI number is a unique identification number used by businesses and individuals that import or export goods across borders. It’s issued by customs authorities and is necessary for businesses trading goods between the UK and the European Union (EU), as well as with other countries.

For businesses in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales), having an EORI number is mandatory when moving goods to or from the EU and other international markets. Without an EORI, businesses will face delays at customs, penalties, or even the confiscation of goods. The EORI system helps streamline customs procedures, simplifies the tracking of goods, and ensures that businesses comply with relevant customs regulations.

Connection Between EORI and Organic Certification (EU 2018/848)

Regulation EU 2018/848, which governs the production, certification, and labeling of organic products in the EU, applies to products that carry the organic label within the European market. Post-Brexit, businesses in Great Britain still need to comply with these regulations if they wish to export organic goods to the EU, as the regulation ensures that organic products meet uniform standards throughout the single market. Here’s how the EORI number plays into this process:

1. Customs Clearance for Organic Products:

When organic products are exported from Great Britain to the EU, the shipment must go through customs clearance, where an EORI number is required. The customs authorities use the EORI number to process and monitor the shipment, ensuring that the goods meet all import regulations, including organic certification requirements.

2. Certification Bodies and EORI:

Organic certification bodies, responsible for verifying that a product complies with EU organic regulations, often require the EORI number during the inspection and certification process, particularly when it involves international trade. The EORI is used to track the movement of organic goods and ensure that they meet the regulatory standards outlined in EU 2018/848.

3. Simplifying the Import-Export Process:

For businesses in Great Britain, having an EORI number simplifies the entire process of exporting organic goods to the EU. Without it, the products may face significant delays or be subject to increased scrutiny by customs authorities, which could undermine the credibility and compliance status of the organic certification.

Applying for a GB EORI Number

To obtain a GB EORI number, businesses in Great Britain must apply through the UK government's online service.The application process requires information such as the business's VAT number, tax reference number, and contact details.Once an EORI number is assigned, it remains linked to the business until the VAT registration is deregistered. The EORI number must be provided to all parties involved in the shipment of organic goods, including carriers, customs agents, and the organic certification body.

Examples of EORI Application in Organic Trade

Example 1: An Organic Coffee Exporter in Scotland

A Scottish company exporting certified organic coffee to France must comply with both UK customs and EU organic regulations. The company applies for an EORI number through the UK government and ensures that its organic certification complies with EU Regulation 2018/848. At customs, the EORI number allows for the seamless clearance of the goods into the EU, confirming compliance with both customs and organic standards.

Example 2: Organic Dairy Imports from the EU to Wales

A retailer in Wales imports certified organic dairy products from an EU supplier. The EU supplier must ensure their products comply with Regulation 2018/848 and provide an EORI number for UK customs. The goods must be cleared, inspected, and approved by customs officials to ensure they comply with both organic certification standards and general import regulations.

Importance of EORI for Businesses under EU 2018/848

In light of Brexit, the necessity for EORI numbers has become even more apparent. Organic producers and exporters based in Great Britain must adhere to dual compliance regimes: one for UK customs and the other for the EU’s organic certification system. The EORI number acts as a critical bridge between these regulatory frameworks, ensuring smooth trade between the two markets.

Businesses that fail to obtain an EORI number risk disrupting their supply chain, damaging their market access, and potentially losing the organic certification that allows them to label and sell their products as "organic" within the EU.

Post-Brexit Impact on Organic Certification

Post-Brexit, the UK government introduced its own organic regulations, but any business looking to trade with the EU must still comply with EU 2018/848. Having an EORI number remains a critical first step in navigating these regulatory waters. The UK’s own organic certification regime is governed by similar principles, but for any cross-border trade, compliance with both sets of regulations is mandatory.

For businesses exporting organic goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, which still follows EU rules under the Northern Ireland Protocol, an EORI number is equally important, ensuring that goods meet both UK and EU organic standards.

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