There are warnings that firms across the UK are now under threat as new border checks are introduced this week.

The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has said the recent revision on the Government Plant Health Portal which announced the reclassification of a substantial volume of EU fresh produce as medium risk is a pivotal development, and subject to new import rules has the potential to cost UK business 3200 million and new border checks are planned. The changes comes as part of the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. Under the plans a broader range of fresh produce will require passports and certificates confirming they are free of potential health risks to the UK’s biodiversity.

Nigel Jenney, CEO of FPC comments: “This verdict delivers a severe blow to the industry and will have widespread ramifications.”

Whilst the implementation will not occur until 31 October 24, the announcement will spark significant apprehension within the sector, he added.

The FPC explained the government’s proposed solutions, including the establishment of a Border Control Point (BCP) at Sevington and the introduction of additional Common User Charge fees, are seen as inadequate for the specialised needs of the perishable sector, known for its just-in-time operations.

“The proposed Government-managed Border Control Point (BCP) solutions fall short of addressing the intricate demands of our highly efficient perishable sector, operating on a just-in-time basis,” he added. “The undisclosed costs associated with the Sevington BCP and additional Common User Charge fees pose a potential threat to the viability of numerous SMEs.”

“For years, we have proposed viable solutions that are only now receiving government consideration,” Jenney continued. “To enhance biosecurity and alleviate costs for consumers, it is imperative to establish cost-effective inspection solutions for SMEs, groupage consignments, and fast-track approval for responsible companies to conduct their own official inspections.

Simplifying and reducing the complexity and cost of trade with the UK is crucial to prevent food inflation and potentially empty shelves.”

In 2022, the UK imported £3 billion of vegetables and £4.5 billion of fruit, with a significant proportion coming from the EU. The introduction of Phytosanitary Certificates for a substantial portion of these imports is seen as a major change.

The FPC added: “This development represents a significant setback for the UK’s fresh produce industry, as it confronts the challenges posed by the new EU risk categorisation and strives to maintain its operational efficiency and economic viability in the face of these daunting changes.”