Business, Freight News, Logistics


UK to pause controls on live animal and Northern Ireland imports – updated

[ August 19, 2025   //   ]

The UK and devolved governments have decided to pause implementation of further import controls on imports of EU and EFTA live animals, and non-qualifying Northern Ireland goods arriving from Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The decision follows the UK-EU summit on 19 May where it was announced that the Animal and Plant Health Agency will agree a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement to simplify agrifood trade between the two.

However, the Border Transport Operating Model (BTOM) controls that are already in place will continue until further notice

While negotiations continue, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) will review the decision as further detail and SPS Agreement timelines are confirmed.

For live animal imports, the existing system of controls on Rest of World imports through Border Control Posts (BCPs) will be maintained, along with remote documentary checks and checks on EU and EFTA imports at destination.

For non-qualifying Northern Ireland goods arriving from Ireland and Northern Ireland, where required, pre-notification and certification will continue.

Current controls on goods transiting GB between Ireland and the mainland EU will remain in place. The current easement on certain medium risk fruits and vegetables from the EU, CH and LI will be temporarily extended.

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) welcomed the Government’s decision.

It said the move — part of ongoing negotiations towards a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement with the EU — signaled a much-needed, pragmatic response to industry concerns. By postponing further checks on imports such as live animals and non-qualifying Northern Ireland goods, the government has demonstrated an understanding of the operational and economic challenges facing British freight forwarders, producers, and retailers.

Director general, Steve Parker, commented: “We welcome the government’s decision to delay further Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) implementation and take a reasoned, phased approach while SPS Agreement details are finalised. This provides vital breathing space for our members and the wider supply chain, while reducing the risk of disruption and unnecessary costs. The freight and logistics sector has long called for clarity and stability — and this announcement reflects meaningful progress in that direction.”

Parker added: “It is encouraging to see recognition of the importance of maintaining open trade flows with our largest market. As freight forwarders continue to navigate a complex global environment, we urge the government to keep working closely with industry, and to ensure that the eventual implementation of new controls — when necessary — is managed with transparency, sufficient notice, and operational support.”

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