Border policy

FMD outbreaks have now been confirmed in Hungary and Slovakia. As a result import bans are in place for Hunagarian and Slovakian POAO. 

Germany was subject to a full import ban but Defra has now recognised regionalisation for German POAO. Trade of affected German commodities can now resume from the areas outside of a 6km containment zone surrounding the original outbreak, provided that all other import conditions are met. For the purposes of certification, the UK considers the area outside the containment zone to be free of FMD for at least 24 months.

Our guidance on the import bans and link to a Defra Q&A can be found below:

Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak – Guidance for Traders

Defra Q&A on German FMD Outbreak

Defra Q&A on Hungarian FMD Outbreak 

The FSA have announced the latest consultation on proposed changes to the High-Risk Food of Non-Animal Origin annexes. The proposed changes can be accessed via our guidance document here. We strongly encourage traders affected by changes to Annex II to begin reaching out to suppliers so that they are aware of any upcoming changes.

FDF Guidance on proposed changes to HRFNAO legislation

FDF continues to engage with government on improving the implementation of this legislation. Please see below a recent letter sent to Defra on this topic, and if you are experiencing issues related to the import of HRFNAO products please contact James.

Letter to Defra on HRFNAO imports.

Phase 3 of the Border Target Operating Model is now effect with Safety and Security declarations introduced for all EU imports from from 31 January 2025. Traders can register here 

Please find further guidance on S&S declarations as well as information on the process for UK exports to the EU and movements to Northern Ireland. 

FDF Guidance on Safety and Security/Entry Summary Declarations

Safety and Security Declarations - Guidance for Traders

Safety and Security Declarations - Dataset

We have updated our FDF guidance on the Border Target Operating Model to reflect numerous changes to the timeline and implementation of checks on EU imports. The updated guidance document an be accessed below.

FDF BTOM Guidance - December 2024 Update

The FDF has drafted the below proposals to streamline the import process for product samples in certain scenarios. We are keen to hear feedback on the following questions:

1. Are the proposed requirements for each scenario appropriate and proportional?
2. How could these proposals be amended to include the possibility of taste testing on site for each of these scenarios?
3. What examples of international best practice has your business encountered when importing product samples? (We are aware, for example, that certain countries (e.g. United States) operate more permissive systems with others (e.g. Australia) operating a simpler permit system, similar to that outlined below.

FDF Proposals