Industry leaders have issued a stark warning that the decision by ministers to impose Brexit import checks on 30 April will result in shortages of certain foods, flowers, and herbs in the UK. The government’s move to give only 27 days’ notice before implementing these new regulations has left small retailers such as delis and farm shops scrambling to ensure they have products to sell.
EU exporters, frustrated with the mounting levels of Brexit bureaucracy, are already looking at other markets instead of the UK. Importers have been dealing with various requirements such as phytosanitary certificates, plant passports, import licenses, and export health certificates since 2020. The additional form and fees of up to £145 per consignment will further add to the costs of importing chilled food and plants.
The Cold Chain Federation estimates that the government stands to gain a Brexit dividend of £60m from these new regulations, with overall food import costs expected to rise by 10% in the first year. The Fresh Produce Consortium has criticized the government for not recognizing the rapid nature of importing food and the impact of additional fees on importers.
British farmers are also facing challenges, with heavy rainfall and flooding leading to an exceptionally poor harvest this year. The new import controls will make it more expensive for farmers to import seed potatoes and other crops, further exacerbating the situation.
Industry experts warn that the new regulations will lead to a reduction in the variety of products available in the UK, as some suppliers are already choosing to stop supplying due to the extra charges. The government, however, maintains that the new border checks are necessary to protect the food supply, farmers, and environment against disease outbreaks.
As the deadline for the Brexit import checks approaches, businesses are bracing themselves for the impact of these new regulations on their operations and the availability of certain products in the market.