British Government Contemplates Delaying Post-Brexit Import Checks on EU Goods Amid Rising Inflation Concerns
The UK government is reportedly considering another postponement of import checks on goods imported from the European Union (EU) in response to mounting fears of inflation. Following the UK’s departure from the EU’s single market at the beginning of 2021, goods originating from the UK have faced checks and administrative requirements from the EU. However, the UK has repeatedly deferred the implementation of checks on EU food and plant products.
According to a report from the Financial Times, ministers are expected to announce a further delay in border controls due to concerns that additional bureaucracy for imported goods may contribute to the already high inflation rate, which stood at nearly 8% in June. In April, the government revealed plans to implement health certifications for animal products, plants, and food and feed commodities imported from Europe by October 31. Furthermore, physical checks and safety declarations were scheduled to be introduced gradually until 2024.
Previous reasons cited for delaying the implementation of these checks included the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine. In response to the Financial Times report, a government spokesperson expressed the government’s ongoing commitment to introducing an innovative approach to imports, which will be phased in gradually. The spokesperson added that they are currently reviewing feedback from various businesses and industry stakeholders and will soon publish the Border Target Operating Model.
