Brexit Delays May Affect UK Crop Production

UK vegetable growers are expressing concerns over potential crop losses this year, attributing the issue to delays in seed imports caused by new post-Brexit border regulations. Trade organizations representing tomato and pepper growers have reported that the new rules, which took effect on April 30, are resulting in delivery delays of up to six weeks. These disruptions are significantly impacting growers' schedules and financial stability, with the British Tomato Growers’ Association (BTGA) warning that yields and profitability are at risk. The delays stem from new import checks mandated for various plant and animal products, particularly high-risk seeds like tomato and pepper. Under the new regulations, seeds must undergo testing in the UK in addition to checks in their country of origin, leading to extended waiting periods. Dr. Phil Morley, a technical officer at the BTGA, noted that testing can take up to 15 working days, with some seeds reportedly held at border control posts for extended durations before testing. Importers have also reported damage to consignments during inspections, exacerbating the situation. Martin Emmett, chair of the NFU horticulture and potatoes board, emphasized that the industry has been warning about these issues for years, and the current delays are now having tangible effects on growers' operations and future planning. The British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) highlighted that seeds intended for trials should have been sown by August 10 but are still stuck at border control posts. Anthony Hopkins, head of policy at the BSPB, stressed the importance of timely seed imports for maintaining competitiveness against international farmers, while the organization continues to collaborate with the industry to address these challenges and enhance trade relations with the EU.