BTOM: new border measure raise concern

Next week, on 30 April, significant changes will be introduced to import controls associated with a new system referred to as the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM).

The BTOM represents a departure from the current practice of permitting site or premises-based physical checks, but also the nature of inspections.  From next week, physical inspections including phytosanitary checks will be carried out at facilities called Border Control Posts (BCP) on imported goods. 

For BCP to be authorised for use post April 2024 they must meet criteria. During the past few months, operators wishing to facilitate the import of goods requiring sanitary and phytosanitary checks specified under the new regime have upgraded existing facilities or built new ones.

Failure to meet specified criteria will mean sites are no loner authorised to handle plants and plant products as part of the importation process. As most BCP are run as commercial enterprises, there is no obligation for their operators to undertake actions specified by APHA to achieve BCP designation.

As previously reported by the Association, there will be one Government run facility – in Sevington, Kent – which meets the necessary criteria, whilst all other facilities able to process plants and plant products are commercially operated.     

A recent update by Defra revealed seventeen commercial sites currently in operation will not be permitted to process imported plants and plant products as part of the new BCP regime. The significance of this reduction in sites is that the choice offered to importers of plants and plant materials is reduced.

As previously reported by the Association, stakeholders in the horticulture industry including plant nurseries and wholesalers rely on the efficient processing of imported materials for a successful and profitable business. 

Association members have previously expressed concern regarding both the efficiency of the proposed process as well as affordability of checks. Despite assurances from government, users of the new system remain concerned by the likely charges levied by operators, as well as logistical challenges associated with unloading and loading materials required as part of phytosanitary checks.

Of particular concern to operators is the failure of commercial operators to release costs associated with using BCP facilities.  Whilst Defra has offered assurances concerning the maximum costs of using government-run facilities, many commercial operators have yet to confirm full pricing details.  For importers who rely on commercial operators and must therefore factor in the costs of using these when pricing plants at the end of the supply chain, the lack of clarity is posing a significant challenge.    

The Association remain committed to supporting members affected by the transition to the new model.

Further reading

Defra article: 1 week to go - New import controls are coming on 30 April