Border Control Posts

As part of the agreement for the UK leaving the EU on 1st January this year, many regulations had to be updated and new ones implemented. These include new regulations for Products Of Animal Origin (POAO), Animal By Products (ABP) and plant products being imported into the UK. The new requirements for these goods will be implemented from 1st January 2022.

Importers will have to work closely with the EU supplier of the goods to ensure all documentation to support the import of the product is provided in a timely manner, and that it accurately reflects that product. The paperwork required includes product specific documents such as sanitary and phytosanitary certificates. The UK government have introduced a new electronic system called IPAFFS, which will support businesses with processing their import declarations.

It’s worth noting that goods may be subject to an examination at the time of import, with these being conducted at a Border Control Post near to the port or airport where your products have entered the UK. However, you will be given due notice if this is to take place.

If you’re in any doubt about these changes, your first port of call should be to reach out to the relevant government agencies responsible for controlling your commodity, e.g. Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

In fact, DEFRA are running a number of webinars during November and early December to support you and your business through these changes: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/webinars-for-importers-of-food-and-drink-products-from-the-eu-to-great-britain

Get in touch if you would like any further advice or guidance on how these changes will impact on how your business imports goods.

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