Concerns Mount Over Post-Brexit Import Charges Impacting UK Food Prices
Source: The DairyNews
Growing apprehension surrounds the potential repercussions of post-Brexit import charges on food prices in the UK, with agri-food sector representatives warning of inevitable cost increases for consumers.
The impending introduction of the Common User Charge (CUC) by the end of this month for goods arriving via the port of Dover and at Folkestone through the Eurotunnel rail system has heightened concerns.
The CUC, applicable to a range of animal, plant, and plant products intended for commercial use entering or transiting through Great Britain, is anticipated to have varying charges depending on the perceived risk level of the product. As per the latest government update, charges will be capped at £145 ($183.5).
Of particular concern are frozen and fresh meat products categorized as 'medium-risk', including mince meat, poultry, rabbit, and game. Importers of these products will face a £29 charge, in addition to a £10 transit charge.
The introduction of such charges is anticipated to have a direct impact on food prices, with consumers likely to bear the brunt of the additional costs associated with importing goods from the EU post-Brexit.
As stakeholders assess the implications of these import charges, there is a growing sense of urgency to address the potential economic ramifications and explore mitigation strategies to alleviate the burden on consumers and the agri-food sector as a whole.
The CUC, applicable to a range of animal, plant, and plant products intended for commercial use entering or transiting through Great Britain, is anticipated to have varying charges depending on the perceived risk level of the product. As per the latest government update, charges will be capped at £145 ($183.5).
Of particular concern are frozen and fresh meat products categorized as 'medium-risk', including mince meat, poultry, rabbit, and game. Importers of these products will face a £29 charge, in addition to a £10 transit charge.
The introduction of such charges is anticipated to have a direct impact on food prices, with consumers likely to bear the brunt of the additional costs associated with importing goods from the EU post-Brexit.
As stakeholders assess the implications of these import charges, there is a growing sense of urgency to address the potential economic ramifications and explore mitigation strategies to alleviate the burden on consumers and the agri-food sector as a whole.
