Excise: HMRC invites views on the Warehousekeepers and Owners of Warehoused Goods (WOWGR) system

HMRC has contacted stakeholders in the Joint Customs Consultative Committee and in the Joint Excise Consultative Group (the CIOT is represented at both) as they are currently reviewing the requirements for the registration and approval of warehousekeepers, owners of goods under duty suspension, and/or duty representatives storing excise goods warehoused in the UK and they would welcome feedback from our members. HMRC has prepared a questionnaire and are keen to hear views on potential changes to the WOWGR regulations. The survey runs from 25 October until 29 November 2023 and completed questionnaires can by emailed to HMRC at the address below. It is not a requirement to answer all of the questions if you only have views in one or more areas, any feedback will be appreciated.

HMRC message:

In March 2022, HMRC announced a review of The Warehousekeepers & Owners of Warehoused Goods Regulations (WOWGR) 1999. Following feedback from industry, HMRC is in the process of reviewing WOWGR as part of its programme of excise simplification and modernisation.

After engaging with key stakeholders, we are developing proposals on how WOWGR requirements could be reformed. We would like to take views from a wide group of excise stakeholders, including businesses registered with HMRC under the WOWGR provisions. 

We are keen to hear from as many affected businesses as possible via a survey that will be live until 29 November 2023. 

We would like to invite you and your members to complete the questionnaire attached and return it to us via email to [email protected].