The UK government has delayed post-Brexit checks on EU-imported fruit and vegetables for a third time, seeking to assess business impacts.
- Original plans intended for January 2024 now deferred to July 2024 to accommodate the Border Target Operating Model.
- Medium risk products like celery and tomatoes are temporarily exempt from checks and fees, offering importers an easement period.
- Apples and pears, classified as low risk, can be imported without any checks or charges, benefiting exporters.
- Industry concerns about potential consumer price increases remain, with the Fresh Produce Consortium noting a £200m import cost impact.
The UK government’s decision to postpone post-Brexit checks on fruit and vegetable imports from the European Union marks the third deferment in the last twelve months. Initially scheduled to commence in January 2024, the checks will now begin in July 2024. This delay is part of a strategy to understand better the ramifications on businesses, as conveyed by The Guardian.
The Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) underpins this delay, categorising products based on risk levels and therefore determining the intensity of checks required. A significant aspect of this delay is the granted easement period for products deemed medium risk, such as celery and tomatoes. During this period, these products will not be subject to any checks or associated fees, alleviating immediate pressures on importers.
In a notable adjustment, fruit products such as apples and pears have been reclassified from medium to low risk. Consequently, they can be imported without undergoing checks or incurring charges. The BTOM’s evolving framework appears responsive to industry feedback, although its implementation has been prolonged due to earlier setbacks.
This postponement follows a recent commencement of plant and animal product import checks on 30 April, which itself succeeded five prior delays. Initially slated for July 2021, these checks reflect ongoing adjustments as new governmental ministers seek to review and refine border control measures.
Despite these administrative strategies, the industry expresses concerns regarding cost implications. The Fresh Produce Consortium has highlighted a potential £200 million rise in import costs, which could ultimately affect consumer prices. A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson indicated that the current delay is a temporary measure, allowing ministers to engage with businesses affected by these impending changes.
The repeated postponement of post-Brexit checks underscores the complexity of implementing new trade regulations amidst evolving business and governmental priorities.
