Amidst growing frustrations with the post-Brexit border system, an increasing number of UK plant and food traders are setting up their own "control points" for product inspections, aiming to bypass government-run facilities. This initiative seeks to reduce costs and minimise trade friction with the EU, while also addressing the persistent delays at the Sevington inspection point.
Ongoing issues at the Sevington site, coupled with problems with the border IT systems and the slow rollout of a promised trusted trader programme, have exacerbated the situation for businesses on both sides of the border. Some suppliers have even ceased exporting to the UK entirely. The trusted trader programme, also known as Authorised Operator Status, was introduced to allow regular importers to conduct checks at their own sites rather than relying on border control posts.
Industry experts have long argued that traders should be allowed to carry out their own inspections, as they already possess the expertise required to meet regulatory standards for fruits, vegetables, and plants.
Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium, highlighted the financial burden this has placed on the industry, stating: "The industry offered cost effective solutions years ago but these were ignored by the previous government. They should have used the industry’s facilities and expertise that already existed and we would have readily shared it. Consequently, it’s a problem of their own making.
Jenney continued: "Our solutions remain valid today and are a short and long-term solution for the flower, plant, fruit and vegetable sectors, as Sevington is simply not fir for purpose. The new Government needs to act now before SME’s fail, through no fault of their own."
Seafrigo, a refrigerated food logistics company, was the first to enrol in the pilot scheme and establish a designated inspection point. Mike Parr, chief executive of PML Seafrigo UK and Ireland, emphasised the importance of the scheme in maintaining the flow of food imports into the UK. However, he noted that a decision on whether to extend the pilot had been repeatedly delayed since it was first introduced three years ago.
Businesses like Seafrigo have invested substantial sums in expanding capacity at their own premises, but the government’s lack of available inspectors—especially overnight—has hindered the ability to recoup these costs. "It’s the only way that bringing fruit and vegetables into the UK is going to work. Sevington is too expensive and too slow," said Parr. He added that hauliers regularly complain about the inadequate facilities at Sevington. "If they come to us, we have everything in place for them."
Currently, 12 consignments of plants remain held up at Sevington, many for over a week, according to sources familiar with the situation. The Horticultural Trades Association expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the delays. By the time the cause—a pest outbreak in Italy—was revealed, further shipments had already arrived. "We have made it clear that delays like this with no communication are completely unacceptable. They must ensure that the industry has detailed and timely communication in the future," the trade group stated.
A customs agent, speaking anonymously, described the "inhumane conditions" for drivers waiting at Sevington, where they are left for hours in a small room with only a bottle of water while their goods are inspected. "Drivers don’t want to come to the UK any more; they’ve had enough," the agent said.
Some traders are hopeful that the government will agree to a “veterinary deal” with Brussels, which could eliminate the need for many inspections and paperwork for plant and animal exports. However, such an agreement could take years to negotiate and implement. In the meantime, the UK’s reputation as a trading partner continues to suffer.
Marco Forgione, director-general of the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, warned that businesses in the EU are increasingly considering halting trade with the UK due to rising costs and uncertainty. “The true cost of BTOM [Border Target Operating Model] for traders is only just beginning to materialise and will impact the cost of living over the winter months with price increases being passed on to the consumer,” he said, urging the government to reassess the feasibility of the trusted trader pilot.
While moving controls to trusted traders’ premises could reduce waiting times and improve biosecurity, traders noted that fundamental issues with the border system remain, particularly the lack of government communication on why certain goods are flagged for checks.
“There still could be delays, but at least the plants will be in an environment where they are cared for,” said Richard McKenna, managing director of Kent based wholesale plant nursery Provender.
A government spokesperson reiterated its commitment to reducing trade barriers and cutting red tape, stating: “[We are] committed to reducing barriers to trade and cutting red tape by striking a fair balance between business and biosecurity. We are piloting a trusted trader approach — the Authorised Operator Status — and full implementation will depend on the outcome.”
Comments