Live Animals
The Government has confirmed that physical checks on Imports of Live Animals from the EU will not start until 1 July 2022. After that live animals must enter Great Britain through an established point of entry with an appropriate border control post (BCP) from 1 July 2022 for documentary, identity and physical checks. After meetings with APHA, we understand that besides BCPs already in place at airports for Live Animal checks, the only BCP with confirmed infrastructure for live animal (other) checks will be at Sevington, Kent. Although physical checks will not be in place until 1 July, those who import live animals from the EU will still need to accompany consignments with a health certificate and pre-notify its arrival in the UK on IPAFFS at least one working day prior to arrival. More detail for those who import live animals from the EU can be found at Import or move live animals, germinal products, animal by-products and high risk food and feed not of animal origin.
Live Plants
The government has confirmed that a phased approach between 1 January and 1 July 2022 will be taken for SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) checks on live plants. From the 1 January, pre-notification of consignments will be required on PEACH – the government IT system for plant imports – along with full customs declarations. Until 1 July, any physical checks that are required will be at pre-existing PODs (Points of Destination). From 1 July, imports of live aquatic plants will be subject to checks at a designated BCPs. We understand that all should be ready to receive live plants for physical checks by 1 July. After meetings with APHA, we understand that these checks will be applied to 10% of consignments. In addition, full phytosanitary certifications will be required for consignments after this date, this will include the new UK plant passport for the onward movement of goods. More detail on import requirements for importing live plants from the EU can be found at Import plants and plant products from the EU to Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
