The UK Government is currently negotiating an EU-UK SPS Agreement that will make agri-food trade with our biggest market cheaper and easier. The deal will cut costs and red tape for British producers and retailers who export to and import from the EU, making supply chains more resilient. The Government remains committed to concluding a EU-UK SPS Agreement, with businesses realising the benefits of that agreement in 2027.

During the implementation of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) import controls in 2024, an easement was placed on medium-risk fruit and vegetables imported into GB from the EU, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The easement was designed to give businesses more time to prepare for incoming controls on medium-risk plants and plant products and temporarily exempted those goods from plant health controls.

The current easement is due to end of 31 January 2027. However, as checks on medium-risk fruit and vegetables from the EU would not be required under the planned SPS Agreement, it has been agreed that the easement will be extended until 31 January 2028, in line with the proposed end of the Transitional Staging Period (TSP).