The Government of United Kingdom has cancelled plans for extra border checks on live animal imports from the EU and select plant and animal products from Ireland, according to a government update. This move aims to make trade easier for British businesses just ahead of a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement with the EU. The deal is set to cut costs, reduce delays, and simplify exporting and importing between the UK and its largest trading partner.
The upcoming SPS agreement will create a shared biosecurity zone with the EU. That means most checks on live animals and certain goods from Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland (“non-qualifying goods”) won’t be needed at the border. Some animals will still be checked at their destination based on risk, and goods will keep needing paperwork in some cases, but physical border inspections are mostly off the table.
The government says UK biosecurity is still a top priority. Risk-based monitoring will continue for any products that might carry threats, and the suspension of checks will be reviewed regularly. Biosecurity Minister Baroness Hayman said the deal would make trading food with the EU cheaper and easier, while still keeping strong controls in place.
While talks continue, businesses must stick to the current UK Border Target Operating Model and any existing checks that protect UK biosecurity. Defra, working with APHA, Border Control Posts, and Port Health Authorities, will keep watch to minimize disruptions.
This follows a recent decision in June to scrap border checks on EU fruits and vegetables—a step to help traders as the new SPS deal takes shape.
