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<p>Since the end of the transition period, Great Britain (GB) has operated its own
sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regime, which is focused on addressing the risks
it faces. This regime includes risk-based import checks of plants, plant products
and other objects to avoid the introduction of harmful plant pests and diseases. These
risk-based checks are in line with WTO/SPS principles and consistent with our obligations
under the EU Withdrawal Act.</p><p> </p><p>The UK Government took the decision to
introduce SPS checks in phases, in order to protect GB biosecurity whilst also maintaining
the efficient trade in goods such as plants and plant products. Therefore, checks
of high-priority plants and plant products have been introduced first, from 1 January
2021, since they pose the greatest potential risk to GB biosecurity. The final phase
of controls will come in from March 2022. Phasing in import controls over 15 months
allows businesses time to adapt to the new requirements.</p><p> </p><p>Defra also
took the decision to delay the introduction of fees for import checks of high-priority
plants from the EU for 5 months to give businesses more time to prepare and adjust
to the new charging arrangements. During this time, Defra has communicated extensively
with industry and stakeholder groups to ensure they are prepared for the new fees
coming in.</p><p> </p><p>On hops, Defra appreciates the concern that the inability
to re-export third country hops and hop products to the EU is causing for hop merchants.
Defra has raised the issue with the European Commission. We will inform stakeholders
at the earliest opportunity if the position changes.</p>
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