Dover, UK: The government decision to delay the need for additional costs and checks on fresh produce imports from the EU until July next year will be “welcome news for those responsible for moving these goods into the country”, Logistics UK says.
The government said plans to introduce checks on some fruit and vegetables, from 1 January would now be postponed by six months, in a move that would give it more time to understand the impact on businesses.
Nichola Mallon, head of trade and devolved policy at Logistics UK, said: “It is vital that the movement of fresh food is undertaken as swiftly and seamlessly as possible to ensure goods in our shops are of the best possible quality, and this is something that the logistics industry has been pressing for for some time.
“It is good to hear that the government is listening to the concerns of our sector and taking action.”
The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) said that following discussions with ministers and officials “an extension to 1 July 2025 is being proposed by Defra.”
The consortium had been warning that checks could add over £200m to import costs and lead to higher prices on supermarket shelves.
The FPC said the postponement would be “most encouraging” and would enable industry to prepare and “understand the requirements and impacts these will have`’.
“We are delighted … that there is a willingness of the new Government to work with industry by delaying this date,” said the FPC.
