How long to receive an EU REX number?

My company is importing goods from the EU and would like our supplier to apply for a REX number. They've responded with "we have, but we won't receive it until the ned of the year" (!) How long on average has it taken for others to receive their EU REX number?

The time limit to issue of the REX registration will depend on local procedures in the country your supplier has applied. Unfortunately the EU legislation does not specify a maximum time limit only that the registration should be issued without delay. HMRC won’t be able to give an update on how long your suppliers application may take. There is provision in the EU - UK trade agreement to submit a retroactive reclaim if there is a delay in obtaining a valid statement on origin.

Thanks for your help.

Hi Scott Fernie,
REX numbers are no longer issued in GB and you cannot apply to become a registered exporter if your business is established in Great Britain.
It is only issued to the traders based in NI, 
Apply to become a registered exporter if you're established in Northern Ireland
If the trader is established in EU and has applied for REX in that country then they need to check with the relevant customs authority about the timescales. 
Thank you.