Against all expectations, exports of flowers and plants to the United Kingdom (UK) are doing remarkably well in the first three quarters of this year, so far reaching a 7.6% plus compared to last year. This makes the UK and Eastern European countries largely responsible for export growth. How did this happen?
Exports to the UK have not gotten any easier in recent years. Since the UK left the European Union, it has become a third country. Whereas plants and flowers from the EU used to cross the UK borders unhindered, they have to meet all sorts of requirements since 31 January of last year. Plants and some flowers destined for the UK must be inspected by KCB and carry a phytosanitary certificate.
In addition, the UK government introduced the British Target Operating Model (BTOM) on 30 April last. Since then the British have been inspecting some of the plants and flowers and plants at their borders. These inspections are leading to higher costs for importers and occasionally cause delays at the border. Although the chaos feared by the ornamentals sector did not materialise, things have not gotten any easier.
