Further delay to elements of the Border Operating Model

21/09/21

The UK Government has decided to further delay some elements of the Border Operating Model (BOM) regarding sanitary and phytosanitary goods.

Initially, the introduction of additional controls and requirements to import such goods into the UK were delayed to 1 October 2021. However, due to the longer-lasting impact of the pandemic and the increased costs of global freight transport, the UK Government has announced a further delay to the controls and requirements for sanitary and phytosanitary goods.

Also, the requirement for Safety and Security declarations on imports is postponed.

What does this mean for your business?

The additional controls and requirements for sanitary and phytosanitary goods were initially delayed to 1 October 2021. With the further delay, the UK government has split the introduction of these controls and requirements over two future dates.

Introduction on 1 January 2022

The introduction of the pre-notification requirements for Products of Animal Origin (POAO), certain animal by-products (ABP), and High Risk Food Not Of Animal Origin (HRFNAO) is postponed to 1 January 2022.

The timetable for the removal of the option to use the deferred declaration scheme and the introduction of customs checks remains 1 January 2022. As such, the introduction of the pre-notification requirement is now in line with this timetable.

Introduction on 1 July 2022

The requirements for Export Health Certificates and Phytosanitary Certificates, as well as the introduction of physical checks at Border Control Posts for sanitary and phytosanitary goods are postponed to 1 July 2022. The requirement for Safety and Security declarations has also been postponed. Instead of 1 January 2022, the requirement to file Safety and Security declarations will also be introduced on 1 July 2022.

How can we help?

In order to be well prepared for the introduction of the final stages of the BOM, including the elements regarding sanitary and phytosanitary goods, PwC can assist with determining which documents / registration / authorisation are required for your products and which authorities should be contacted to obtain them.

Furthermore, we can assist with the registration/completing of documents and with setting up a process to ensure compliance and avoid delays.