The implementation of checks on fresh produce has been postponed multiple times due to concerns over their impact on supply chains.
Industry leaders praised the decision, describing it as “common-sense,” and highlighted previous estimates that suggested the checks could have led to £200 million in increased costs and higher prices.
“This Government’s EU deal will make food more affordable, reduce bureaucracy, and eliminate burdensome border controls for businesses,” Biosecurity Minister Helene Hayman stated.
“An enhanced, forward-looking partnership with the European Union will benefit working people as part of our Plan for Change.”
SPS checks on food imports like meat, fish, and dairy were implemented on April 30, 2024, by the Conservative government following years of postponement — but checks on fresh produce have not yet commenced.
A proposed October 2024 start date was postponed by the Labour government to July this year, but this has now been effectively postponed indefinitely.
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