UK Govt published the final Border Target Operating Model (BTOM)

The model sets out a new approach to security controls (applying to all imports), and sanitary and phytosanitary controls (applying to imports of live animals, animal products, plants and plants products) at the UK border. The Guidance and more information are available here.

The BTOM will apply from different dates depending on the type of import. Please note that the SPS-related measures come into effect later than previously announced.

• 31 January 2024 - health certification on imports of medium risk animal products, plants, plant products and high-risk food (and feed) of non-animal origin from the EU.
• 30 April 2024 - The introduction of documentary and risk-based identity and physical checks on medium risk animal products, plants, plant products and high-risk food (and feed) of non-animal origin from the EU. At this point Imports of Sanitary and Phytosanitary goods from the rest of the world will also go through the new risk-based model.
• 31 October 2024 - Safety and Security declarations for EU imports will come into force from 31 October 2024. Alongside this, the UK government will introduce a reduced dataset for imports.

The BTOM also includes more details on the implementation of the Windsor Framework and trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Northern Ireland businesses will largely retain unfettered access to Great Britain, whether moving qualifying NI goods directly from Northern Ireland or indirectly through Irish ports.

The UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) will organise a series of events in the coming weeks on the implementation of the BTOM. More information is available here.

Please let us know if you have any questions.