In our penultimate look at the skills that can support the development of a trade professional’s career, we take a look at how a strong understanding of IT and data is beneficial for progression.
We published our ‘Seven Skills for Success in Global Trade’ report last month and it contains further insights from the Chartered Institute of Export & International’s team of trade experts on the skills you and your team should prioritise for success in the industry.
Digital era
The report highlights the changes that the UK border has undergone in recent years and the rapid pace of IT development, noting that “governments, in the UK and overseas, are continually updating border IT systems to help better facilitate cross-border trade for businesses”.
“Supply chain tech is also rapidly evolving, with Internet of Things, blockchain and AI innovations increasingly to the fore.”
Among trade systems that trade professionals in the UK must get to grips with are the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS) and the recently introduced Licensing for International Trade System (LITE), which allows traders to apply for and maintain export licences.
Government-led drive
The Chartered Institute’s Imports Advisory Practice lead, Ilona Kawka, said that developing IT infrastructure has been a government priority in recent years.
Despite a period of protracted change, traders can expect to benefit from simplified processes as a result.
Theres been a particular focus on “system upgrades, new solutions and improving existing platforms.”
“There’s also been strong emphasis on exploring opportunities to enhance interoperability between governmental agency systems, ensuring greater integration to reduce data input.”
Skill development
The report goes on to highlight how a strong grasp of these systems and the data they require can support a team operationally.
As with many industries, “using technology to analyse performance can support your understanding of the supply chain and also improve efficiency”.
Data management skills and advanced analytics also play a role in “optimising trade operations, forecast trends and help to manage compliance risks”.
Learn more
The Chartered Institute provides training courses on CDS, including an e-learning course at an introductory level and a day-long, trainer-led course for more advanced users.
Members can also access a library of exclusive webinars preparing them for the ‘future of trade’ and ‘trade rules and processes for 2024’, which include in-depth discussion about CDS.
Member exclusive
