The NFU Brexit team has been doing a lot of work regarding no-deal planning.
For an overview and general information you can visit their Brexit hub here.
For further explanation or assistance with any area, please contact YnJleGl0QG5mdS5vcmcudWs=
Defra guidance -Preparing the organic sector for Brexit
The information below, has been published by the Defra Organics team, specifically for organic operators to help them prepare for EU Exit in the case of no deal.
The Government would prefer to leave the EU with a deal, but if this is not possible, we want to ensure that all necessary preparations are made. As we get closer to 31 October and the UK’s departure from the EU, organic businesses need to be aware of what is changing and how you may need to adapt to change this autumn.
Exports
From 31 October, UK organic control bodies will need to be recognised by the EU in order for organic food and feed to be exported to EU countries.
We are pushing for a fast-tracked process so that farmers and exporters can continue to access the EU market and are also continuing efforts to open up global markets for exporters.
The EU currently has equivalency arrangements with several non-EU counties, including Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand and the USA. We have negotiated and secured agreements with these countries so that UK exporters can continue to trade with markets outside of the EU, whether we leave the EU with a deal or without.
Visit our guidance for more information
Imports
Legislation has been put in place to allow the continued import of organic food and feed from the EU and EEA States into the UK. The UK will not require a Certificate of Inspections (COIs) for imports from the EU, EEA States and Switzerland until 1 January 2021.
Importers of organic products from third countries will need to use the new manual UK organics import system if we leave the EU without a deal. Currently, importers use the EU’s TRACES NT system, so if you import goods from outside the EU you will need to ensure you have the necessary information you need, such as the UK Certificate of Inspection and associated guidance. This will be communicated ahead of 31 October.
The new system will enable UK authorities to ensure our standards are met and products are organic and traceable.
Support
We understand that Brexit is impacting on organic businesses in the UK and we will continue to work with the Control Bodies to secure recognition from the EU as soon as possible.
For more guidance to businesses on how to prepare, please click here. Alternatively, speak to your export agent.