Peter Curran, Head of Dual Market Access
Dual Market Access - Time to Think Differently?
Northern Ireland occupies an exceptional position in today’s global trading environment.
When the United Kingdom (UK) exited the European Union (EU) over four years ago, Northern Ireland acquired the unique benefit of dual market access. This unique status allows the free movement of goods between Great Britain (GB) and the EU—a privilege no other region can claim.
The Northern Ireland Assembly’s decision to uphold this agreement through the democratic consent mechanism until at least the end of 2028 is a welcome and much-needed step toward securing economic stability in Northern Ireland. This, combined with the full implementation of the Windsor Framework in 2025, provides the perfect opportunity for Northern Ireland manufacturers to think differently about dual market access.
What is dual market access?
From our perspective, dual market access is defined as “the free movement of goods from Northern Ireland to Great Britain and the European Union,” echoing pre-Brexit conditions. However, for free movement to GB, these goods need to be classified as Northern Ireland Qualifying Goods. This is when local goods are in free circulation (i.e. not in a customs procedure or in an authorised temporary storage facility) before being moved from Northern Ireland to GB.
While this might seem like ‘business as usual’ for local manufacturers, GB and EU businesses now face additional burdens when trading with each other. Post-Brexit, they must now consider customs, tariffs, proofs of origin, and more as required under World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules or the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. These can lead to increased costs and more complex procedures that Northern Ireland businesses can avoid.
Why is now the time to think differently?
Dual market access is not just a status. It is an advantage for Northern Ireland businesses, a launchpad for new or further business growth, and a prime opportunity to be taken advantage of.
Here are some points to consider and reflect on for current and future business endeavours.
Market Access – No other region enjoys seamless trading with GB and the 27 member countries of the EU—use this to your advantage to inform existing, new, and potential customers.
Competitive Edge – Highlight your ability to move goods freely, unlike your GB or EU competitors. This could be one of your unique selling points and give you a competitive advantage.
Optimise Supply Chains—Now is the time to dig deeper into your business. Review your supply chains to identify potential savings, streamline processes, and build stronger relationships with suppliers. All of which can boost your output and benefit your business in the long term.
Building a stronger economy
Not only will embracing dual market access strengthen and boost your business, but it will also help strengthen Northern Ireland’s reputation as a dynamic hub for trade and innovation, resulting in future job creation and economic stability.
How can we help you?
We are here to provide guidance, resources, and expertise to help you navigate and grow your business in new and existing markets.
Ready to unlock your business's potential with dual market access? Further information on dual market access can be found at nibusinessinfo.co.uk.
We can also provide you with market-specific information via our Business Information Centre.
Interested in knowing more about how we can help your business export? Take our free Export Health Check and register for one of our upcoming Lunch & Learn | Introduction to Exporting workshops.
* The 27 EU member states are Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden.
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