As of November 2025, businesses moving goods from Great Britain to retail premises in Northern Ireland are operating under the full requirements of the Northern Ireland Retail Movement Scheme (NIRMS).
The scheme sets out clear labelling rules for certain products, particularly food items, to maintain transparency in trade between Northern Ireland and the European Union.
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Products currently requiring individual labels
High-risk foods and products of animal origin are subject to phase 3 labelling requirements.
Items such as ultra-heat-treated (UHT) milk, certain ice creams, and mixed-ingredient products combining dairy and plant-based elements now need individual labels indicating “Not for EU.”
This measure continues to prevent these goods from entering the EU market without appropriate checks, supporting regulatory compliance and consumer safety.
Exemptions and simplified labelling
Several product categories remain exempt from individual labelling.
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By GlobalDataShelf-stable soups, flavourings without meat, baked goods like bread and cakes, and some plant-based or mixed processed animal products do not require separate labels.
These exemptions allow businesses to focus compliance efforts on higher-risk items while still ensuring trade clarity.
Maintaining compliance in practice
Retailers and suppliers are now expected to routinely check that items destined for Northern Ireland carry the correct labels.
Staff training and clear labelling practices are essential to avoid errors.
The government continues to update guidance on NIRMS compliance as trade flows evolve, and companies are advised to monitor official sources to remain aligned with current regulations.
