Upcoming Import Controls Update: HallMark Leads in BTOM Readiness for April 30, 2024
HallMark Readies for New Import Controls
With the April 30, 2024, deadline fast approaching, HallMark Veterinary & Compliance Services is at the forefront, ensuring our Portal Official Veterinarians (OVs), Importers, and Portal Health Authorities are fully prepared for the new import controls set by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra). Our extensive experience positions us perfectly to support UK Port Health Authorities (PHA)/Border Control Posts (BCPs) as they navigate these upcoming changes.
Key Changes Effective from April 30, 2024
Border Control Posts (BCP) and Control Points (CP) Compliance: Goods from EU/EFTA must enter GB through designated BCPs or CPs where risk-based documentary, identity, and physical checks will be conducted.
Inspection Requirements: Consignments must be presented for inspection at a BCP or CP when called.
IUU Documentation for Fishery Products: Importers must upload IUU documents to CHED in IPAFFS before submitting import notifications.
Non-EU/EFTA Imports Alignment: Simplification of imports and adjustments in check rates for non-EU/EFTA risk-assessed countries.
Find out more about non-EU/EFTA BTOM risk categories for Animal Products
Find out more about non-EU/EFTA BTOM risk categories for Plant Products
Import Notifications and Customs Declarations
From April 30, 2024, HMRC and Defra will extend cross-checks of import notifications and customs declarations to include consignments from EU/EFTA countries. To facilitate a smooth import process and avoid 'No Match' errors, it's crucial to ensure consistency between import notifications submitted on IPAFFS and customs declarations submitted on HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service (CDS).
Resources and Support
HallMark encourages participation in Defra's webinars designed to guide traders through the new import processes. For more information and to register for these informative sessions, please visit Defra's Eventbrite page. In addition, visit Defra’s YouTube channel and watch recordings of previous Defra webinars for traders.
For a comprehensive understanding of the upcoming changes and how to ensure compliance, refer to the official government guidance.
HallMark's Pioneering Readiness Initiatives
Understanding the critical nature of these changes, HallMark has embarked on an extensive readiness campaign. We have conducted thorough training sessions for all our Official Veterinarians (OVs) and closely collaborated with Port Health Authorities (PHA)/Border Control Posts (BCPs) to ensure they are well-prepared for the BTOM implementation.
Our initiatives include:
Comprehensive Training Programs: We've rolled out detailed training for our OVs, covering the new procedures and compliance requirements under BTOM. These sessions are designed to equip our team with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the new import controls effectively.
Partnerships with Authorities: Collaboration is key to our readiness strategy. We've strengthened our partnerships with PHAs/BCPs, working together to develop and refine processes that will ensure smooth operations under the new regulations.
Stakeholder Engagement: Keeping our clients informed and prepared is a priority. We've engaged with our extensive network of importers, exporters, and other stakeholders, providing them with the guidance and support needed to adapt to the new import controls.
