Overview

• The UK began enforcing post-Brexit physical inspections of plant and animal imports from the EU, leading to increased costs and potential delays.
• Businesses estimate the new border measures could add over £1 billion annually in costs, significantly impacting food prices and availability.
• Concerns grow over the impact on small and medium-sized enterprises, with fears of reduced consumer choice and increased food waste.
• Government officials argue the checks are essential for biosecurity, despite criticisms of the measures causing chaos and inflation.
• The checks are part of broader post-Brexit adjustments, affecting everything from labor availability to trade negotiations.