On 20th February, BFFF attended Defra’s BBTP Business Readiness Forum, where detail from a “Central Hub” was shared regarding import checks undertaken and the level of compliance with documentary requirements introduced under the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) on 31st January 2024.

Of the checks Defra have undertaken:

• 91% had an EHC attached, and of those 87% were a correct version of the certificate.
• Consignee and Consignor details are being submitted correctly in approximately 50% of notifications.
• The Description of the goods has been completed correctly on 31% of notifications.
• Both country and region of origin are being completed correctly on over 60% of notifications.
• The conformity of goods and what they’re certified for are also being completed correctly on 90% of notifications.
• Place of despatch and place of loading are being completed correctly on 67% of notifications.
• The EHCs attached to the notifications checked, 73% have a PDF certificate attached and only 27% have a scanned copy.
• 250 traders have already received their direct feedback. Collective feedback is anticipated to go out this week.

Defra have provided detail of common errors identified via sample SPS documentary checks. Several common errors have been identified since 31st January which can be viewed here.

The following reminder regarding IUU documents has also been issued for fishery product consignments:

Please send IUU documents relating to your fishery product consignments, imported from the EU, to the appropriate PHA or LA once pre-notified on IPAFFS. This will change from 30 April 2024, when PHAs/LAs will have full access to IPAFFS, and further IUU information and documents will be required to be uploaded to IPAFFS. IUU documentation may need to be uploaded to PHILIS, for PHAs and LAs who operate this system.

To find out more, join a Defra information session for businesses, running throughout March and April. Register via Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/the-btom-what-are-the-sps-border-controls-2144279