DEFRA will not be delaying the introduction of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM). The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is sticking to the timetable, a spokesperson confirms.
The DEFRA spokesperson referred to BTOM as an innovative import system that is gradually being introduced by the British. “BTOM has been developed with significant involvement from customs and industry in the UK as well as abroad and in conjunction with the authorities in Scotland and Wales. The government remains committed to the introduction of the Border Targeting Model as per the published timetable.”
Since DEFRA sees no reason to delay the introduction of the BTOM, exporters must have chrysanthemums, dianthuses (including centipede), orchids, gypsophilas and solidagos inspected and phytosanitarily certified before export to the UK as of 31 January 2024. From 30 April, the UK will start checking documents and carrying out random physical inspections of plants and flowers at so-called Border Control Posts (BCPs). Currently, the British still inspect incoming plants at Places of Destination.