Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue said today (Monday, November 9), that he has written to more than 20,000 companies registered with the department to remind them of the “significant and enduring changes” that will happen on January 1, 2021.
This, the minister said, would occur regardless of the outcome of the EU-UK negotiations to secure a free-trade deal.
The minister is calling on these business to “urgently prepare” for these customs and regulatory changes now.
We are at a critical stage, given that there are fewer than 55 days until Brexit becomes a reality for us all. Things will change on January 1, regardless of what happens in the EU-UK negotiations. Businesses need to understand what this will mean.
“There will be delays in the movement of goods compared to current single market-supported arrangements,” Minister McConalogue highlighted.
The minister’s letter underlines some of the changes that will occur in relation to animals and goods imported from Britain; that export certification will be introduced by the UK on a phased basis from January; and that Brexit will also impact on agri-trade transiting the UK landbridge.
He said: “Once again I want to highlight the urgent actions that businesses importing animals, plants, and products of animal and plant origin – and particularly the operator responsible for the relevant consignment – need to take to avoid disruption.
The department can also initiate the EU’s Trade Control and Expert System (EU TRACES) registration process, which requires engagement from these businesses.
The letter goes onto highlight that businesses should review their supply chains and familiarize themselves with regulatory requirements.
“With just over 50 days until the end of the transition period, time is very short and action is required urgently. This is not something that can be left to the last minute, so I would again appeal to businesses in the agri-food sector to take action now,” Minister McConalogue argued.