UK Delays New Brexit Checks on EU Fruit and Veg Until 2025
The UK government has decided to postpone new post Brexit checks on fruit and vegetables imported from the EU. These examinations were scheduled to begin in January 2025. But now it will be delayed until 1st of July 2025. The decision was made to allow the new Labour government more time to evaluate the proposed guidelines and consult with companies involved in importing these goods.
Why Were These Checks Delayed?
These processes are known as sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS). They have been created to make sure that imported food meets safety standards. However many businesses were concerned that the checks would increase expenses and complicate the entire process. Some analysts believe that the new laws will cost the fruit and vegetable business an additional £200 million. This might end up in increased supermarket pricing for customers. Especially given the current high cost of food.
Trade groups, like the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), have been lobbying for more time to prepare for these changes. They have argued that businesses and supply chains need time to adapt to new rules without risking food shortages or higher costs. The government seems to have listened, and the delay is seen as a positive move by many in the industry.
What Will Happen Next?
From January 30, 2025, some products, like apples and pears, will be categorized as "low risk" instead of "medium risk." This means that these products can continue to enter the UK from the EU without facing new checks. For other types of fruit and vegetables, the government will take more time to review how these rules should be applied.
In the coming months, the Labour government will continue to talk to businesses and work on creating a plan that protects consumers while also considering the needs of the industry. The delay also gives more time to fix any IT issues and make sure the system is ready when the checks finally come into force.
Why Do These Delays Matter?
These delays are important because they affect the price and availability of fresh fruit and vegetables in the UK. If the checks add extra costs, businesses may raise their prices to cover them. This could lead to higher food prices in supermarkets, which would impact consumers. By delaying the rules, the government is hoping to avoid this problem for now and make sure everything runs smoothly when the checks do begin.
