DEFRA CONFIRMS UK TARIFF REQUIRES SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES

Defra's published guidance with regard to the importation of fresh produce is out of step with the requirements provided in the UK Tariff. Having raised the matter with Defra, below is its official response:

"Risk categorisations as described on the Plant Health Portal (https://planthealthportal.defra.gov.uk), provide information on what is required for goods entering GB.

The requirement to make a pre-notification on PEACH or IPAFFS on EU low risk fruit and vegetables was removed on the 17th November. Further information will be released in the future if these goods are re-categorised.

EU risk categories mean:
High risk – Required a PC and pre-notification from 01 January 2021.
Medium – Have required a pre-notification since 01 January 2022, but will require a PC from 31 Jan 2024.
Low risk – Does not currently require a PC or pre-notification.

As a result of these changes the Import Tariff tool requires some substantial changes to reflect the differences in regulation from January 2024 and then April 2024 when checks for EU goods move back to Border Control Posts or Control Points in order for those goods to flow effectively.

Use of 999L or a correct waiver is currently permitted from an SPS perspective as long as the rules of the above risk categories have been followed.

As you have noted it is mainly the EU goods that are impacted by the incorrect information on the tariff tool and Defra are working to get this updated ASAP."