The impending EU Entry/Exit System (EES) could severely impact Christmas food logistics in the UK.
- Logistics UK raises alarms over potential delays at Dover due to new EU biometric checks.
- Research suggests potential for long queues and extensive delays, affecting vital imports and exports.
- Logistical disruptions could escalate costs, with implications for UK consumers during the festive season.
- Current government preparations are focused on infrastructure over direct solutions for EES-related disruptions.
The anticipated implementation of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) on 10 November, which requires fingerprint and facial recognition for non-EU passengers at Dover, could significantly affect the flow of Christmas goods in the UK. Logistics UK, a major trade group, has voiced its concerns regarding these measures and the potential for severe delays.
According to Logistics UK, the new regulations could lead to extensive tailbacks, threatening the efficient movement of goods. They have urged for a public awareness campaign to alleviate possible confusion at borders. Imperial College London has conducted research indicating that each minute added to vehicle processing could extend queues by approximately 10 miles.
The repercussions of such delays are particularly pertinent during the ‘food shoulder’ period when the UK relies heavily on imported products. Despite the fact that most truck drivers are EU nationals and not subject to these checks, the delays experienced by car traffic could still result in significant queues, putting UK exports like seafood at risk.
Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade at Logistics UK, has called for the UK Government to spearhead a comprehensive public information initiative, managing expectations and providing clear guidelines. Mallon also suggests contingency plans, such as limiting biometric scans in case of system failures, might be essential to mitigate potential chaos.
Financially, Logistics UK estimates that every minute of delay at the border costs approximately £1.30 per truck, leading to an additional £1,100 in costs for potential 14-hour holdups—expenses that will likely be transferred to consumers. These delays could cost the UK economy around £400 million annually.
Although the UK Government has allocated £10.5 million to facilitate EES preparations, these funds are primarily intended for infrastructure enhancements at Dover, Eurostar, and Eurotunnel, rather than direct mitigation of delays. The preparations for awareness campaigns are in progress, but specifics remain limited.
Efforts by the government and logistics firms are crucial to preventing a supply chain crisis during the Christmas period.
