Defra releases common user charge details
Earlier this month Defra released details of the charges due to be levied on imports entering Great Britain through government-run Border Control Posts – a few weeks before they will be introduced as part of wider changes to import controls associated with the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM).
The BTOM represents a departure from the current Place of Destination (PoD) system, which permits site or premises-based physical inspections but was only intended as a temporary solution whilst the BTOM and associated facilities were developed. Whilst phytosanitary checks are undertaken in the country from which products originate, the BTOM aims to bolster defences against pests and diseases.
From 30th April 2024, businesses importing consignments of goods including plants and plant products into Great Britain through Government-run facilities will need to pay a ‘common user charge’ to help fund the operation of facilities serving Port of Dover and Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, which will be used to carry out physical checks on imported goods. This is in addition to fees paid to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) for inspection.
The common user charge will apply to all eligible imports (which includes all plants and plant products) regardless of whether the consignment is selected for a physical check at government-run BCP facilities. Inspection of goods is risk-based (i.e. the higher the risk, the more likely the consignment will be checked) meaning only selected consignments will be inspected by APHA staff. Inspectors will review the genera being transported and take a representative sample.
Operations associated with the facilities will include unloading/loading consignments from lorries as well as storage and care of materials whilst being inspected. Whilst consignments undergoing inspection will be held for the minimum amount of time, Defra has previously advised storage facilities are temperature controlled and consignments fall under the responsibility of the operator whilst being held. Facilities will have a range of equipment at their disposal for movement/loading of consignments.
Importation of plants and plant products from European countries is a vital part of the horticultural supply chain in GB, and members not directly involved in trading or retailing plants and plant materials are unlikely aware of the volume of plants and plant materials imported either for sale or growing on. Most retailers and wholesalers in Great Britain rely to some extent on plants and plant materials imported from Europe for stock.
As reported by the Association last month, nurseries and wholesalers – who must pay the common user charge and APHA inspection charge on all plants and plant products they import - have previously warned of the potential for disruption (to costs and availability of materials) as a result of this regime change.
Whilst this recent announcement has allayed fears regarding significant price increases, it has done little to dispel fears regarding disruption to supply chains caused by inspections. Despite assurances from Defra, importers remain concerned about the implications of the new importing regime and unconvinced about the viability of inspecting planting materials without causing significant delays to the delivery dates of materials.
Further reading
Defra guidance: Common user charge: rates and eligibility