General information on the situation after the transition period
The new border controls on imports coming into GB will enter into force gradually according to the UK’s Border Operating Model.
EU companies wishing to import from or export to the UK must ensure that, from 1 January 2021, they have the EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number required for customs formalities.
Northern Ireland continues to be subject to Union rules on goods and the Union Customs Code. The VAT and excise rules apply to all goods entering or leaving Northern Ireland.
Excerpts from the UK’s statements and Border Operating Model:
Requirement that came into force in 2021:
- Exports of high-priority plants and plant products require a phytosanitary certificate, pre-notification and checks. These products include: plants for planting, ware potatoes, some seeds and timber. The requirements also apply to used agricultural and forestry machinery.
- The wooden packaging material must be treated and marked in accordance with the ISPM 15 standard.
- Exports of fishery products to the United Kingdom are subject to import controls. In addition, the export of marine-caught fish is subject to a catch certificate.
- Exports of live animals and germinal products to the GB require a health certificate. The health certificates are in TRACES system. The importer has to make a pre-notification via the Importation of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System (IPAFFS).
- Exports of high-risk animal by-products (ABPs) from the EU to the UK require pre-authorization from IPAFFS notification system and a commercial document that can be made in TRACES system.
- For live animals, germinal products, and products of animal origin (POAO) subject to safeguarding measures, the importer obtains a Unique Notification Number (UNN) from APHA (Animal & Plant Health Agency). The UNN-nunber must be put in the box No I.2.a in TRACES health certificate.
- Products of animal origin must be pre-notified through the IPAFFS system when they are imported from the EU into the UK.
- Pre-notification in the PEACH system and documentary checks will be required for low risk plants and plant products. These products include certain fruits and vegetables as well as certain cut flowers and certain cereals. More information on the UK website.
Upcoming requirements: The Border Target Operating Model