In a significant win for the UK’s fresh produce industry, the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has successfully secured a potential delay to post-Brexit border checks on EU fruit and vegetables until July 2025.
After years of tireless campaigning, the FPC’s dedication appears to have paid off. Defra is now proposing to postpone the introduction of sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks on medium-risk EU fruit and vegetables by six months, following persistent pressure from the FPC. Originally set for January 2025, these checks could now be delayed until 1 July 2025 if the government approves the plan.
The FPC’s victory is a result of long-standing efforts to protect the industry from the operational and financial strain that such checks could impose. Recognising the complex challenges the sector faces, the FPC has continually voiced concerns about the impact of border delays and additional costs to the supply chain.
In a key move, the FPC wrote to Baroness Hayman of Ullock, parliamentary under-secretary of state at Defra, in July 2024, requesting clarity and pushing for a deferral of the checks. The letter also advocated for aligning the introduction of the Authorised Operator Scheme (AOS) with the new July 2025 deadline, ensuring that the entire industry would have adequate time to prepare.
Baroness Hayman responded in August, signalling that Defra was now planning for “easement to end on 1 July 2025” and would adapt SPS controls from that date. This confirmation was hailed as a huge win for the FPC, who described the response as "positive on many fronts", while noting that final government approval is still needed.
FPC chief executive Nigel Jenney, a steadfast advocate for the industry, has long warned of the financial repercussions of the proposed checks. His commitment to the cause was evident as he consistently highlighted the potential £200 million cost increase to the sector, which could push up prices for British consumers.
"This consideration to defer the easement until 1 July 2025 is a significant victory if approved," Jenney declared this week. "FPC will continue to lobby the government on the most appropriate action and timescales to allow industry to prepare, whilst working with our members and EU partners to understand the requirements and the impacts these will have."
His words reflect the determined approach that the FPC has taken throughout its campaign. Far from opposing border checks outright, the organisation has instead championed a pragmatic approach that ensures supply chains are fully prepared, while safeguarding plant health and food safety.
"We are delighted at FPC that there is a willingness of the new government to work with industry by delaying this date," Jenney added. "We believe that SPS controls are vital, but we recognise the need for the current issues to be resolved before significant changes are implemented."
This hard-fought success follows several years of uncertainty. Full checks on agricultural goods arriving from the EU were originally scheduled for 31 December 2020, but delays have been frequent, with this latest deferral being a critical achievement for the FPC.
The industry body’s persistent efforts have now resulted in a possible reprieve for businesses across the supply chain. The extra time granted by this proposed delay will allow the industry to ensure that it is fully prepared for the transition.
With the government yet to give final approval, the FPC remains vigilant, committed to ensuring that the voice of the fresh produce sector continues to be heard. For now, this hard-earned victory stands as a testament to the organisation’s relentless advocacy and dedication to protecting the future of the industry.
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