Navigating the new UK border inspections: implications for Dutch flower and plant exports
New inspection protocols
The implementation of new inspection protocols at the British border poses significant challenges for exports of fresh produce, including milk, meat, flowers and plants. All European shipments must now be checked for diseases directly at the border, which can cause delays and increase costs for British consumers.
Change in inspection locations
Since the Brexit, Dutch flowers and plants must be inspected both in the Netherlands and in the UK. Previously, these inspections were carried out at various locations near delivery addresses in the UK. The consolidation of these points into a few central locations near ports and airports represents a significant change. Flowers and plants are now inspected immediately upon unloading from the ferry, adding to an already stringent inspection regime. This change means that products that were previously considered low-risk, such as cut flowers and certain plants, must now be inspected in the same way as high-risk products such as flower bulbs.
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Economic impact on the industry
The reduction in the number of inspection points and the increase in inspection frequency are causing significant concern within the Dutch flower and plant sector. The UK is the largest non-EU market for Dutch flowers and plants, with an export value of about €900 million out of a total export value of €7 billion. Only Germany imports more products, with an export value of about €1.6 billion.
Leon Verschoor of Royal Lemkes, a major exporter to the UK, expressed concerns about increased administrative burdens and costs as a result of these changes. The company’s shipments to the UK face potential delays that could lead to spoilage, which has a significant impact on trade. Verschoor notes that Brexit has increased costs for exporters without improving plant safety and health, with inspections being conducted twice within 24 hours.
Challenges due to lack of inspection capacity
The UK Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has indicated that inland inspections were always a temporary measure. To address the lack of inspection capacity at ports, APHA plans to prioritize inspections based on the risk of disease transmission. This effectively restores the high-risk policy that was recently phased out.
The Dutch Association of Wholesalers in Floricultural Products (VGB) considers this response inadequate. VGB president Tim Roozendaal emphasizes that thousands of inland inspection points will be replaced by only a few points at ports, causing uncertainty about inspection times and costs. This uncertainty is expected to affect flower and plant prices for British consumers.
Reduce risks with cooling solutions and insulation packaging
In this challenging environment, proper refrigeration and insulation are crucial to maintaining the quality of flowers and plants when transit times are longer. Indeed, delays can significantly affect the freshness of these delicate products.
The importance of reliable cooling systems
Good refrigeration systems are vital to reduce the risks associated with the new inspection procedures. These systems help maintain the quality of flowers and plants, even in the event of delays, and prevent the growth of mold and other pathogens. By investing in reliable refrigeration solutions, exporters ensure their products meet the high standards their customers expect.
The role of effective insulation
Effective insulation packaging is equally important to maintain the quality of flowers and plants. Insulation keeps temperatures constant and protects produce from temperature fluctuations that can occur during transport. This is especially crucial during delays at inspection points, where prolonged exposure to varying temperatures can lead to spoilage.
Adapting to the new challenges
The new UK border inspections pose significant challenges for Dutch flower and plant exporters. The consolidation of inspection points and the increase in the frequency of inspections add to the administrative burdens and costs that exporters already face. However, by investing in the right refrigeration and insulation solutions, exporters can mitigate some of these risks and maintain the quality and freshness of their products.
As the industry goes through these changes, care must be taken to maintain high standards and ensure customer satisfaction. The industry must adapt and innovate to overcome these challenges and continue to thrive in the post-Brexit landscape.
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