UK to Extend Import Tariff Suspensions on More Than 250 Products to December 2028

What changed

In a GOV.UK announcement published on 23 October 2026, the UK government said it is "extending import tariff suspensions on more than 250 products favoured by businesses, saving up to £155 million per year." It said the extension "will ensure tariff free imports on over 250 goods that were due to expire on 31 December are extended until December 2028."

All suspensions that were consulted on are being extended, "apart from those that no longer have a material effect." Suspensions due to expire in June 2027 "will also be extended by 6 months to December 2027" while a formal review takes place.

Who it affects

UK importers using tariff suspensions, which the government says cover sectors including chemicals, plastics, hydrogen, automotive, and food and drinks, and overseas suppliers of those goods.

Status

This is a government announcement. The list of products and the legal instrument making the change had not been published in the announcement.

What exporters and importers should do

• Check whether goods you import rely on a suspension due to expire on 31 December or in June 2027, and watch for the published list.
• Use the new window, which the government says runs "from 11 November to 3 February", to comment on extending suspensions beyond 2027 or to request new ones.

Source: GOV.UK press release from HM Treasury and other departments (23 Oct 2026).