Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) learning sessions
As reported in a newsletter technical article in September, the UK Government has now published a new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), which represents a new process for importing plants and plant products into the UK. The model has been developed in collaboration with the Scottish and Welsh Governments.
The measures implemented via BTOM will be phased in between January 2024 and April 2024.
Under BTOM, all plants for planting, certain seeds and timber are categorised as high-risk goods. Importation of these goods requires:
- Pre-notification and a phytosanitary certificate when being imported from the EU, Liechtenstein and Switzerland
- From 30th April 2024: Checks carried out at either a Border Control Post (BCP) or Control Point (CP) where identity and physical checks will be carried out. Checks will be carried out at a frequency of 5% - 100% depending on the risk
To support stakeholders in learning about the Model in more detail, Defra is launching a series of free training sessions which will focus on the requirements coming into force next year.
A session focussing on the certification requirements coming into force from January 2024 is being held at 4pm on 19 October 2023. Click here to book.
A session focussing on changes to border checks coming into force from April 2024 is being held at 11am on 25 October. Click here to book.
Further reading
