Food shortages expected in UK as new Brexit regulations takes effect on Jan 1

On Saturday, customs rules of Brexit on food products entering UK from EU will go into effect, which, food industry organisations warned might pave way for food shortages in country. Importers are required to file a detailed customs statement for products entering United Kingdom from EU or or nations starting January 1, reported AP. UK is reliant on EU imports of fresh fruits and vegetables, with 90% being lettuce and 85% of tomatoes.

British Frozen Food Federation suggested that new EU regulations on animal and plant products might le to substantial delays at ports on New Year, because, some in supply chain, particularly logistics companies on EU side, may be unprepared for changes.

January will be a difficult month

As per AP, British Frozen Food Federation's chief executive, Richard Harrow asserted that y are concerned that not equate planning has been done to ensure that everyone in food supply chain follows new criteria. He furr ded that y are concerned that January will be a difficult month.

Companies importing food are mandated to submit necessary paperwork at least four hours before products can reach UK borders, according to AP. Animal and plant-based products must also be accompanied by certificates of origin and drivers are required to declare ir goods and provide proof of origin. United Kingdom imports five times more food than it exports to European Union. Norrn Ireland and Ireland are exempt from modifications as political leers continue to negotiate Norrn Ireland protocol.

government claims that it was only aware a small number of trers

UK government claims that it was only aware a small number of trers will be affected and that impact would be minimised because many importers of plant goods can continue, according to Independent. spokesperson for Department of Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra) stated that y are examining se situations and working with impacted individuals to give a short-term workaround. He furr said that y apologise for any difficulty this may create.

(Inputs from AP)

Image: AP/ Shutterstock