The UK government postpones border controls on EU food imports amid inflation concerns, impacting the grocery sector.
- Originally scheduled for October 2023, the Border Target Operating Model’s full implementation now extends into 2024.
- Businesses and ports receive more time to adjust to complex import requirements, including vet certificates and physical checks.
- Industry voices fear increased costs could raise consumer prices, with government estimates suggesting £420m yearly expenses.
- Surveys indicate significant EU suppliers are unprepared, potentially causing food shortages, particularly during the Christmas season.
The UK government has decided to postpone the implementation of post-Brexit border checks on food products imported from the European Union. This decision comes amid widespread concerns that such controls may exacerbate current inflation levels in the country.
The Border Target Operating Model, which was scheduled to commence on 31 October 2023, with a comprehensive import regime by October 2024, will now be delayed. Under these new rules, imports involving products deemed medium or high risk, such as meat, dairy, and fish, would require veterinarian-signed export health certificates and be subject to physical border checks.
The postponement is intended to provide both businesses and port operators with additional time to adapt to the new regulatory environment. These detailed rules are anticipated to be released soon, as reported by reliable sources such as the Financial Times.
A spokesperson from the government has indicated that the system will be introduced on a progressive basis, though the new timeline has not yet been finalized. Confidence is expected to wane among stakeholders as the specifics remain unsettled.
Significant industry apprehension was previously noted in June 2022, when concerns centred on an anticipated inspection fee of up to £43 per food consignment from the EU, potentially increasing costs for consumers significantly. The government has estimated that these additional controls could amount to costs of £420 million per year.
The Cold Chain Federation’s recent survey reveals that 39% of EU food suppliers to the UK are not aware of these impending changes, while 41% lack plans to ensure compliance. Among the suppliers, 10% anticipate reducing their supply influx to the UK, with 7% considering the complete cessation of trade with the country.
Consequently, notable warnings have surfaced regarding potential supply chain disruptions, particularly surrounding key festive food items like pigs in blankets and eggs, which could face shortages during the Christmas season.
The delay in border controls reflects ongoing complexities in post-Brexit adaptation, likely impacting both supply chains and inflation.
