What's new for Exporters as of 1st January

PEM Convention introduces new cumulation

The Pan-Euro Mediterranean Convention is an agreement among 25 parties in the European region, Middle East and Africa. Its aim is to increase trade by establishing common rules of origin. As of 1^st January, there are some revised rules to help assist companies. Although the UK is not currently part of PEM this could be useful for manufacturers who have factories in the EU/PEM countries. Further details on the list of countries and rules of origin can be found here.

The UK Government announced in the Trade Strategy in June that it would start engaging businesses to consider the benefits and risks of joining PEM. There was a call for evidence in December so the next steps will depend on the results of the consultation.

US Delays Tariffs on Wood Products

The tariff increases initially scheduled for 1^st January 2026 on upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities will now be delayed until 1^st January 2027.

CBAM  

The 1st January 2026 was the end of the transitional phase for EU CBAM. Those exporting steel and aluminium products into the EU must ensure that importers are authorised to import CBAM products and purchase CBAM certificates.  

The UK has announced it will introduce CBAM from 1st January 2027.

Need Help?

For further assistance on rules of origin, trade agreements or CBAM you can email our team international@gmchamber.co.uk or book a meeting here. We also have some upcoming training courses covering all of these topics, see our courses here.