Industry leaders warn that vague BTOM requirements and delayed guidance risk pushing up grocery bills when new rules kick in on July 1

The fresh produce industry is bracing for significant challenges as new border policies are set to take effect this summer, potentially impacting pricing for consumers.

The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has warned that the financial burden of these unclear policies will likely result in increased costs for consumers.

Chief Executive of the FPC, Nigel Jenney, has publicly criticized the government for its lack of clarity and direction, describing the current system as “chaotic and incoherent.”

He emphasized that the costs imposed on the industry will not simply disappear but will be passed onto British consumers.

This warning comes as the FPC and the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) have jointly urged the government to consider a more dynamic partnership model to address these issues.

Under the new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), specific products like asparagus and grapes have been classified as ‘medium risk,’ requiring a phytosanitary certificate and, in some cases, pre-notification through the government’s Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System (IPAFFS).

While apples and pears have been downgraded to ‘low risk,’ allowing them to travel freely to the EU, the lack of detailed guidance for other products is causing concern.

Jenney noted that despite consistent requests for information, the industry has received no effective responses or direct communication from the UK government.

As the ‘go live‘ date of 1 July approaches, industry leaders express frustration over insufficient time and information to prepare adequately.

The lack of coherent strategy is also being addressed in correspondence with Defra under secretary of state, Baroness Hayman of Ullock, who is expected to discuss the issue in an upcoming parliamentary session.

Jenney highlighted that the “shockingly poor communication” from the government has left both UK trade and EU officials unable to plan effectively.

Soft fruit grower Tim Chambers shared his experience of discarding 300 tonnes of fruit last year due to paperwork and delays, illustrating the operational challenges faced by the industry.

Chambers emphasized that the certainty of delivering to foreign customers has been severely compromised, affecting business operations.

The produce industry is calling for decisive action from the government, expressing skepticism over promises of a future “EU reset,” which could take years to materialize.

With the impending changes, industry leaders stress the urgent need for clear answers and certainty to navigate the evolving landscape.

As the 1 July deadline looms, the industry remains in turmoil, grappling with the operational burdens imposed by the new border policies.