Food industry executives raise fears of delays or shortages from European suppliers
[ad_1]
Food industry executives fear delays or shortages due to European suppliers not ready for new border rules coming this weekend
- Strict import controls have entered into force due to Britain’s departure from the EU
- Over £ 230bn of products are imported into the UK from the EU each year
- Additional paperwork means EU shipments must have full customs declarations
Food industry executives have sounded the alarm bells for possible delays or shortages as European suppliers are not ready for new border controls imposed over the weekend.
Strict import controls came into effect yesterday following Britain’s departure from the European Union a year ago.
More than £ 230 billion of products – more than a quarter of Britain’s food supply – are imported from the EU each year.
But the extra paperwork means shipments from the EU to the UK must have full customs declarations and proof that the goods must be duty free.
Shane Brennan, Managing Director of the Cold Chain Federation, representing frozen and chilled food suppliers
Last night, senior industry officials raised concerns about the readiness of EU businesses – especially small suppliers – warning that a lack of awareness, incorrect documents and checks Additional burdensome borders could have a significant impact on imports.
The Food and Drink Federation, which represents more than 1,000 companies, has sent out special advice to its members on the new import rules.
He warned that trade barriers risk “completely blocking deliveries from EU suppliers, at least temporarily”.
The federation said UK exports to the bloc fell 40 to 60% in value in the first three months of last year, when controls on goods entering the EU were imposed. He said a similar pattern could emerge with imports.
The situation “presents a real risk which could disrupt the functioning of UK supply chains when a critical ingredient is delayed or does not arrive”.
Shane Brennan, Managing Director of the Cold Chain Federation, representing frozen and chilled food suppliers, said, “This will make it harder for smaller businesses to sell their products.
The Food and Drink Federation, which represents more than 1,000 companies, sent special advice to members on new import rules
“Some will choose not to do it anymore. We were therefore able to see these products no longer being stocked in restaurants and supermarkets.
Supermarkets contacted by The Mail on Sunday said they have worked closely with suppliers.
One of them said the government had told them it would be “pragmatic” to apply the new rules.
[ad_2]
Comments are closed.