Dutch flower growers are urging the UK government to delay post-Brexit border controls on plants and food scheduled for implementation this month. The Dutch association of wholesalers in floricultural products, VGB, has expressed “significant concerns” about the industry’s readiness for the changes, emphasizing the potential for “substantial damages and losses” if there are delays at customs.
The new post-Brexit border regime mandates European importers to provide health certificates for “medium and high risk” animal and plant products starting from January 31. Physical inspections of these goods are set to begin at the end of April. Flowers such as chrysanthemums, carnations, and orchids are now categorized as medium risk, requiring checks.
VGB argues that the proposed checks could disrupt the peak season for the sector, impacting Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Currently, officers visit garden centers post-delivery, allowing for care while awaiting inspection. However, after April, physical controls will occur at the port, potentially causing hours-long delays and jeopardizing perishable goods.
The Horticultural Trades Association chair, James Barnes, highlights that Brexit has already introduced delays to imports, and the situation may worsen under the new regime. VGB is calling for a further grace period, requesting that physical checks be postponed until September 2025. Additionally, they seek a review of which flowers should be classified as high risk.
The UK government has delayed the introduction of extra import controls five times, but VGB emphasizes the need for further postponement. Concerns are raised about potential price increases as importers may struggle to absorb the new costs associated with the additional checks. The Fresh Produce Consortium estimates additional annual costs of over £10 million, which could be passed on to consumers. The government asserts that the border strategy aims to protect the UK from biosecurity threats, using Brexit freedoms to simplify import controls globally.
