Mazars, the international accountancy firm, has announced the launch of a dedicated UK-based Customs & International Trade service to its growing number of clients.

Headed up by James Hurst, National Indirect Tax Partner, the new service is aimed at companies involved in international trade, arming them with the knowledge of import and export regulations so that they avoid unnecessary risks and costs.

Mazars’ new UK Customs & International Trade service can assist with a variety of customs and global trade related aspects, including (but not limited to-): Classification of goods in the Harmonized System; Export control; Customs regimes such as transit, storage and processing; Customs valuation; Origin and preferential duty treatment; Exemptions; Compliance and risk analysis; Authorized Economic Operator (applications, reviews and monitoring); and Litigation (objection/appeals).

Explaining the benefits of the new service, James said: “Mazars has been offering this services via its Netherlands office and we are pleased to now have a dedicated UK-based specialist who is able to work with the global integrated partnership. We feel this will really enhance our service to exporters and importers.

“As a top 10 accountancy firm in the UK, Mazars recognised the need for this service in-country, and with the potential changes that may happen as a result of Brexit the timing is perfect to consider and review international operations for both indirect tax risk and opportunities.”

She adds: “This new service will make it easier for our clients in the UK to have access to customs specialists, while the new service will also integrate with other UK service offerings such as tax and audit, enabling our UK clients to benefit further from our expertise in dealing with HMRC.”

In cooperation with the global Mazars network in almost 80 countries, the customs specialists at Mazars can help assist companies with managing and optimizing the supply chain.