The UK government has decided to postpone post-Brexit physical checks on EU imports of “medium risk” produce by six months.
- Stakeholders from the logistics and haulage sectors have expressed a cautious welcome, stressing the need for swift decision-making.
- This decision, announced by DEFRA, is intended to allow thorough consultation with import supply chain stakeholders.
- The post-Brexit regulations classify imports into three risk categories, impacting checks on various food products.
- Concerns have been raised about the financial impact and uncertainty caused by repeated delays in regulatory implementation.
The UK government’s decision to delay for six months the implementation of post-Brexit physical checks on “medium risk” fruit and vegetables from the European Union has been cautiously welcomed by the logistics and haulage sectors. This delay aims to provide the new government time to thoroughly consult with stakeholders involved in the import supply chain concerning the potential implications of these checks.
Logistics UK and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) have called upon the government to expedite a firm decision regarding the implementation of the new border regulations affecting food imports. The industry seeks clarity in order to avert unnecessary complications and expenses. The rules require physical checks on imported goods, with risks classified into three levels: high, medium, and low.
The phased implementation of new regulations began earlier this year. In the first phase, commencing in January, EU goods required health certificates, affecting items such as cut flowers, meat, fruit, and vegetables. The second phase, beginning in April, introduced physical checks on chilled and frozen products like meat, fish, cheese, and dairy. The third phase, set to initiate checks on fruit and vegetables, has now been delayed multiple times, with the start date pushed to 1 July 2025.
Ashton Cull, RHA’s public affairs manager, while acknowledging the necessity of the delay, stressed the urgent need for a defined policy regarding future border controls. “Clarity on the way ahead,” he emphasised, “would give everyone involved in European trade the time to prepare and avoid additional unnecessary expense.” Logistics UK’s head of trade, Nichola Mallen, echoed similar sentiments, noting that swift and seamless movement is vital to ensure the optimal quality of goods in shops.
DEFRA cited the delay as a “temporary measure” to ensure new ministers can thoroughly review the border control plans and engage with businesses across the supply chain. DEFRA has also revised risk categorisation for specific plant products; seven groups, including apples and pears, have shifted from medium to low risk, effective 30 January 2025. This change allows freer movement of these goods from the EU, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
Warnings from stakeholders pertain to increased costs exceeding £300 million for the fruit and vegetable industry due to the impending checks. The delays and re-evaluations aim to mitigate potential financial burdens and ensure that both businesses and consumers are not adversely affected.
Prompt resolution and clarity on post-Brexit border checks are essential to prevent economic disruption and ensure seamless trade.
