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<p>The Government has undertaken extensive engagement with EU Member States to reduce
any risk of disruption to trade as a result of the new requirements. This included
Ministerial engagement in the joint UK / EU Domestic Advisory Group session at the
start of January 2024, enabling EU trade associations to engage directly on their
outstanding queries ahead of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) implementation.</p><p>We
continue with official level engagement with trading partners across the EU, including
official visits to Belgium (by myself), the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Italy,
Spain, Poland and Germany in 2023 and 2024. The Chief Veterinary Officer has also
engaged with counterparts across the EU in order to resolve issues such as ensuring
availability of translated Export Health Certificates.</p><p>Prior to the second BTOM
milestone of 30 April 2024, officials worked with EU-based businesses to conduct robust
operational testing. We have and will continue to work with the European Commission,
individual EU Member States and trade bodies through established fora, webinars, business-to-government
and commodity-specific sessions. We are always keen to seek feedback to address any
concerns.</p><p><strong><p><p></strong></p>
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