Amazon is preparing to stop selling certain products to customers in Northern Ireland as a result of post-Brexit trading arrangements. The move could affect items such as food supplements and some over-the-counter medicines, which may become unavailable to Northern Irish consumers.
The changes are expected to take effect after the current grace period for parcels moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland expires on 1 April. Amazon stated it is 'planning and preparing for 1 April so we can continue to serve our customers in NI who count on Amazon with the broadest possible selection of products'.
The company is reportedly being guided by the EU's Prohibitions and Restrictions for Customs list, which includes items that are banned from the EU or require specific checks. This list covers exotic goods like seal pups and nuclear waste, as well as everyday items such as certain food products and animal medicines.
Northern Ireland remains part of the EU's single market for goods under the Northern Ireland Protocol, meaning goods entering from Great Britain are subject to EU rules. A grace period has delayed new checks on parcels since 1 January, but this is due to expire in April.
Earlier this month, Amazon informed its marketplace sellers that parcels from Great Britain to Northern Ireland will require customs declarations from April. Some retailers are already using customs processes to ship goods across the Irish Sea.
A UK government spokesperson said: 'These goods will not be taxed twice, and we will issue new guidance clarifying the position to ensure any remaining issues are addressed.' The government previously acknowledged the need for a pragmatic approach to comply with the protocol without causing undue disruption.
