France Ends Regime 42: Impact on DDP Exporters and Options for 2026

France will withdraw Regime 42 from 1 January 2026, removing the VAT simplification that allows goods to enter France without import VAT when they are destined for another EU member state. 

This change has received limited publicity, but it will have important implications for UK exporters shipping on DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms via the Dover–Calais route.

Under DDP, the UK exporter is responsible for all import formalities in the EU. With Regime 42 ending, DDP movements routed through France will require French import VAT to be accounted for, unless the exporter holds a French VAT registration. This introduces new administrative requirements and potential cash-flow exposure for any DDP shipment transiting France.

The Netherlands will continue Regime 42, and some traders may choose to reroute via Dutch ports such as Harwich–Hook of Holland. However, it is important to note that the Dover–Calais corridor remains the fastest, cheapest and most efficient UK–EU gateway and any large-scale diversion of traffic may add pressure to already busy gateways.

To ensure continuity and flexibility, Noatum Logistics can support exporters with several options:

T1 Transit Solution – Moving goods under a T1 allows transit through France without triggering French import VAT. Customs clearance is completed at destination, avoiding the need for a French VAT number and maintaining full route flexibility.

French VAT Registration and Returns – Where preferred, Noatum Logistics can manage French VAT registration and periodic returns on behalf of UK exporters.

Routing via the Netherlands – Noatum’s Noatum Logistics’ Netherlands office is on hand to simply import formalities for shipments routed through Dutch ports, where Regime 42 remains available.

Given the significant time and cost advantages of Dover, many exporters may find that the T1 or French VAT registration options deliver the best balance of compliance, speed and cost-efficiency.

Any UK exporter operating under DDP terms should review their routing and customs approach now to ensure compliance and minimise disruption ahead of January 2026.