The UK's fresh produce industry is raising the alarm following a tense parliamentary session on 6 May, during which Baroness Hayman appeared to sidestep crucial questions about the looming introduction of Medium Risk A & B plant health checks.
With just weeks remaining before the planned 1 July rollout, the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has warned that persistent ambiguity and unanswered questions could lead to serious disruption across the UK's fruit, vegetable, and cut flower supply chains.
Appearing before the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee, Baroness Hayman failed to provide the clear, actionable details industry leaders have been demanding for months. Her vague responses left stakeholders frustrated and increasingly concerned.
"None of these questions are new," said Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive of the FPC. "We've been asking for clarity for months. Time is running out, and the industry cannot afford further ambiguity."
During the hearing, the EFRA Committee pressed the Government on a number of urgent concerns raised by the FPC, such as:
Confirmation Of The 1 July Deadline – The sector still lacks official confirmation on whether the easement for Medium Risk A & B fresh produce will end as scheduled. This uncertainty is severely hindering operational planning.
Readiness Of Border Control Posts (BCPs) – Key BCPs, such as Sevington, remain under scrutiny amid concerns around infrastructure and staffing capacity. The Government offered no firm assurances.
Extended Inspection Hours – The industry urgently needs confirmation of round-the-clock inspection availability to maintain time-critical supply chains, yet no commitment was made.
Authorised Operator Status Scheme – Importers remain in the dark about the launch of this vital scheme designed to reduce delays for compliant businesses.
Product Classification – The Government has still not published a definitive list of produce falling under Medium Risk A & B categories, despite repeated calls from industry leaders.
EU And UK Systems Readiness – There is deep concern that plant health authorities on both sides of the Channel are unprepared for the expected volume of documentation and inspections, especially for complex groupage consignments.
Performance Issues At BCPs – Continued inefficiencies at Sevington were raised, with no improvement plan offered in response.
Lack Of Transparency On Common User Charges – Importers are unable to budget effectively, as charges for 2025/26 remain unconfirmed.
No Commitment To Direct Engagement – Defra has yet to agree to a face-to-face meeting with the FPC and other industry bodies to resolve these issues collaboratively.
The FPC is calling for urgent, high-level engagement with Defra and related agencies to deliver the clarity and planning required to avoid chaos at the border.
"The absence of a clear, transparent roadmap is fuelling anxiety and undermining confidence in the Government's ability to deliver its own Border Target Operating Model," added Jenney.
"Without immediate action, the UK faces delays, shortages, and serious damage to its reputation as a reliable fresh produce market."
For more information:
Fresh Produce Consortium
Email: [email protected]
freshproduce.org.uk