In a stark warning to the UK government, the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), representing the environmental horticulture and gardening industry, has expressed deep concerns about the forthcoming Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) changes scheduled for April 30. The HTA warns that the proposed import policy poses a significant risk to the future of plant trade in the UK, jeopardizing businesses, jobs, biosecurity measures, environmental targets, and the choices available to the nation’s 30 million gardeners.
With just nine weeks until the BTOM changes take effect, the HTA Chairman, James Barnes, highlighted numerous issues with the government’s proposals. In a letter addressed to the Secretary of State for Defra, Rt Hon Steve Barclay MP, Barnes emphasized that the consequences could have far-reaching impacts on the horticulture industry, especially on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and could disrupt operations in the peak season.
Barnes expressed concerns about the lack of detail regarding the operation of Border Control Posts (BCPs) in handling high-risk plants. He stated, “There is an extraordinary amount of detail missing on how BCPs will work and operate when handling high-risk plants; we have set these out months, in some cases years ago.” He pointed out the insufficient capacity and capability of BCPs to efficiently check plant products, citing issues such as inadequate space, equipment to unload mature loads like trees, and a limited number of checking bays.
One of the major worries for horticulture businesses is the unknown costs associated with using BCPs. The HTA fears that the uncertainty and potential high costs could hinder plant trade, impacting British gardeners’ ability to purchase their preferred summer varieties.
To address these concerns, the HTA has called for urgent action from the Secretary of State, outlining specific recommendations:
Sustain the current Point of Destination (PoD) system until BCPs and easements are thoroughly tested and accessible to businesses, ensuring a careful transition without disruption during the peak season.
Announce the Common User Charge (CuC) and engage directly with the sector to address outstanding details and questions. The HTA insists that the industry should not bear the burden of untested plans and risks, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of costs.
Urgently meet with the industry to discuss the impending changes, advocating for a collaborative, open, and expert engagement to ensure the competitiveness and availability of the sector are sustained.
The HTA emphasizes that a workable border model is crucial for over 90% of the UK’s tree and plant growers, who import plant products for operation and propagation purposes. These imports, falling within the high-risk category, were valued at £753 million in 2022. The HTA’s warning underscores the need for a comprehensive and well-managed approach to avoid severe consequences for the horticulture industry and the broader economy.