August 31, 2023 – The recent announcement of the final publication of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) by the UK government has drawn mixed reactions from the horticulture industry. While the BTOM aims to ensure a smooth flow of goods and safeguard against security and biosecurity threats, several members of the industry have voiced concerns about potential delays and increased costs across the supply chain.
Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) Highlights Industry Concerns
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), representing over 1,500 members in the UK environmental horticulture sector, has acknowledged the positive strides taken with the BTOM’s formal release. However, Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of HTA, noted that the model falls short of adequately addressing the sector’s needs.
One key concern lies in the readiness of Border Control Posts (BCPs) to handle the diverse range of imports from the EU received by the horticultural sector. The HTA welcomes the proposed delay in the introduction of BCP checks until April 30, 2024. However, the timing of this delay during the peak plant trade season and its insufficient duration to complete the proposed pilot of the Authorised Operator Status model have raised concerns.
Barnes emphasized the need for better dialogue between the EU and the UK concerning plant imports, given the substantial value of imported plant material. In 2022 alone, the value of imported plant material exceeded £753 million, constituting half of the cumulative value of the UK’s trees, plants, seeds, and bulbs production sector. The HTA stressed the importance of ongoing refinement of the BTOM and its impact on garden center customers.
Industry Players Express Concerns Over Costs and Delays
Neil Alcock of Seiont Nurseries and Andy Burton of Double H Nurseries shared their concerns about increased costs and delays resulting from the BTOM. Alcock expressed apprehension that the model’s implementation could amplify costs and friction in imports from the EU, citing the challenges already faced with EU-bound shipments.
Burton, whose company produces wholesale plant nursery products, highlighted the increased costs and risks of delay that the BTOM could impose on their operations. He noted that products categorized as high risk are already subject to plant health checks, and the new model could further inflate prices.
HTA’s Call for Collaborative Action
The HTA underscored the importance of meticulous planning, thorough testing, and effective communication for a smooth transition to any new trade system. They expressed commitment to working collaboratively with the government to prioritize the plant trade industry. Sally Cullimore, Technical Policy Manager at HTA, emphasized the need for an efficient, cost-effective, and accessible border model that recognizes the EU’s role in supplying the UK gardening and landscape market.
While the HTA welcomes some changes in the final publication of the BTOM, they urge the government to remain open to enhancements that will benefit the horticulture industry. The association aims to continue engaging with relevant stakeholders in pursuit of positive changes.
Upcoming Sessions to Address BTOM Concerns
HTA shared links to resources providing more information about the BTOM’s implications for the horticulture industry. They also highlighted upcoming seminars on September 7 and September 21 that will explore what the BTOM means for the horticultural sector and exports from Ireland, respectively.