As reported by the Financial Times, the UK Government is hoping to streamline its customs border via the implementation of high-tech digital solutions.
The FT writes that ideas expected to feature in the trial are shipping container seals that automatically alert authorities when any tampering has occurred, and using GPS live tracking to detect any trucks that go of course or make unplanned stops.
It is said that officials believe such solutions will create supply chains that are easier to monitor and audit. In turn, this would give businesses the opportunity to assess their operations away from the border in a way that’s not possible today.
According to the FT, officials believe the private sector can achieve better results than “previous state-run IT projects,” hence the decision to put the smart customs system to public tender.
At this moment in time, it is unknown where the trial would take place. The FT states it shall operate in a “live port environment” that would allow tech providers and import-export companies to see how effective the trial is.
The moves comes ahead of the customs and veterinary checks on EU goods that are due to be implemented in less than a month.
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