Following the successful cooperation on VAT and customs, the leading European, British, and international leisure marine associations continue to provide clarity on the new post-Brexit trade relationships.
The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), European Boating Industry (EBI), European Boating Association (EBA), British Marine (BM) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) have now issued clarification on certification requirements for second-hand boats in trade between the EU and UK post-Brexit.
In dialogue with the EU and UK authorities, key questions were raised, and clarification received. The scenarios have been confirmed by BEIS and are understood to be correct based on guidance by the European Commission.
Below are the scenarios for second-hand boats that are covered by the EU’s Recreational Craft Directive and the UK’s Recreational Craft Regulations. In cases where recertification would be required, a Post-Construction Assessment (PCA) will have to be completed. This applies from the end of the transition period (TP) on 1 January 2021.
| Five scenarios | Situation in 2021 | Situation in 2022 |
| Scenario 1
– Boat in GB at end of TP |
Does not need to be recertified
|
Does not need to be recertified
|
| Scenario 2
– Boat in GB at end of TP |
Needs to be recertified |
Needs to be recertified |
| Scenario 3
– Boat in EU27 at end of TP |
Does not need to be recertified
|
Does not need to be recertified
|
| Scenario 4
– Boat in EU27 at end of TP |
Does not need to be recertified
|
Does not need to be recertified |
| Scenario 5
In GB sold to EU end user, but: – First sale in EU-27 (not GB market), (CE-marked, bought by EU citizen, registered, and used in EU) January 2021 |
Does not need to be recertified (but proof required by national authorities) | Does not need to be recertified (but proof required by national authorities) |
Further clarifications are being sought from BEIS and the European Commission related to trade with Northern Ireland.
