Northern Ireland Airports and UK Travel Retail Forum Seek Reinstatement of Duty-Free
Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport, City of Derry Airport, and the UK Travel Retail Forum (UKTRF) have jointly appealed to both the UK government and the European Commission to restore duty-free shopping for passengers traveling to and from the European Union (EU).
Brexit’s Impact on Duty-Free Shopping
Following the UK’s exit from the EU at the end of the transition period in December 2020, duty-free shopping was reintroduced for flights departing from airports in the UK, including destinations within the EU. However, this privilege was not extended to Northern Ireland airports, leading to a call for uniformity.
Economic Significance of Duty-Free Sales
Duty-free sales have a substantial impact on the UK economy, contributing over £900 million to GDP. These sales play a crucial role in supporting local economies, creating jobs, and generating significant non-aeronautical revenue for airports.
Addressing the Imbalance
Nigel Keal, Chairperson of the UK Travel Retail Forum, emphasized the importance of harmonizing duty-free rules at Northern Irish airports with those of their British and European counterparts. Keal underscored that the popularity of post-Brexit duty-free shopping has boosted consumer spending and supported sectors recovering from the pandemic.
Economic Losses and Unequal Treatment
The inability of Northern Irish airports to offer duty-free goods to passengers traveling to both Great Britain and the EU is causing an estimated annual loss of £5 million in regional Gross Value Added. The economic impact is particularly pronounced considering the size of the Northern Irish economy.
Framework Agreement and Call for Equality
The UKTRF referred to the Windsor Framework, agreed upon in February, as a significant step in the EU-UK relationship. It highlighted that the agreement aimed to safeguard Northern Ireland’s position within the UK. The call for reinstating duty-free shopping seeks to ensure fairness and equality for Northern Ireland residents.
Appeal for Swift Restoration
Graham Keddie, Managing Director of Belfast International Airport, stressed the urgency of restoring parity, fairness, and equity for the people of Northern Ireland. Keddie noted the current disparity faced by the airport and its customers and called on both the UK Government and the EU to take prompt action.