We make dry spice mixes. Can we export these?

Question

We grind various spice blends, package and sell these in UK to individual purchasers and retail outlets.
Can we export to individual purchasers?
Can we export to retail outlets?

Answer

Information on the Customs requirements for exporting is given in HMRC Public Notice 275. All notices can be found on our website www.hmrc.gov.uk under Quick Links > Library > Official Statistics – Publications – Notices, Info Sheets & Other Reference Materials > Import, Export & International Trade. The Public Notices are in numerical order.

I would also suggest that you contact the Customs Authorities in the countries of import to ascertain if there are any import restrictions on such items.

Answer

There is no problem for deliveries to be made directly to individual customers of your product(s), provided you sell on-line.

Manufactured goods originating in EU member countries are admitted free of duty when delivered to Belgium. These goods have ‘Community’ status, meaning that they are able to circulate freely within the whole European Community. So there are fewer trade restrictions and no customs papers are necessary.

If you are interested in selling to retailers, you will have to taken on either an agent or an importer/distributor who will represent you on the market. Selling direct to small retailers is extremely time consuming, on the other hand, if you are interested in selling to supermarkets, this can be done direct. You should be aware that some supermarkets wil ask for exclusivity for their shops only. As is the case in the UK you will be expected to pay listing fees.

Export Action Plan