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The UK government has defended the recent introduction of sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks under the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), which began in April 2024. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) insists these measures are crucial for national biosecurity, despite concerns raised by businesses and customs agents regarding the costs and operational challenges.

The Common User Charge (CUC), introduced to fund SPS checks, has been criticised for its "chaotic" implementation, particularly at the Sevington border control post. A report by the Financial Times suggested that some customs agents have been charged for inspections that couldn't take place due to technical issues. This has led to frustration among traders, who feel burdened by these costs.

In response, Defra emphasised the necessity of the new checks, stating that the CUC is designed to spread costs across all imports, keeping charges predictable and manageable. The department underscored the risks of a potential outbreak of plant or animal disease, which could have devastating economic and environmental consequences.

Defra has assured businesses that the impact of the CUC will be monitored and reviewed annually, with adjustments made as necessary. To support traders, the government has provided various resources, including a recent webinar on CUC invoicing and payments. Additionally, Defra is working with HMRC and Border Force to enhance system resilience, including plans to extend the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) for certain products.

Amid these changes, the Labour government is exploring a veterinary trade deal with the EU to reduce the need for SPS checks on specific goods, although no timeline has been set for this agreement.

Source: Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade