New guidance notes published for importing animal products
Defra and APHA have published a collection of Import Information Notes (IINs) which contain statutory guidance for importers, vets and border officials on the import into Great Britain of animal products and by-products.
The guidance includes notes on importing products that are being returned to GB after having been refused entry by a trading partner's competent authority (as distinct from goods returning that have been rejected for commercial reasons). It also includes guidance on importing research and trade samples. Both these types of imports involve complexities which, if not properly understood by those involved, can lead to costly wastage or missed opportunities.
This comes as a new European Commission survey shows British companies are planning to import more EU food and drink, cementing our reliance on our nearest trading partner. And it begs the question why, given that we will be doing this anyway, does the UK not move to a system of dynamic alignment on food and drink so we can do-away with all the extra costs and bureaucracy associated with the current post-Brexit border system?