From the end of the month, the UK government is scheduled to impose a tax on food imports from the European Union of up to 169 euros. This action will increase business costs and lead to increased food prices.
British trade groups are warning consumers of a potential rise in food prices, as the UK government is set to impose post-Brexit duties on imports of food and plant products from the EU at the end of the month. The Guardian newspaper.
The UK Government has provided details of the import duties that will begin to be imposed, which will apply to small imports of animal and plant products, such as cheese, yoghurt and sausages, entering the UK from the European Union, via the Port of London. Dover and the Eurotunnel at Folkestone.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the fee, which amounts to €169 (£145) and comes into force on April 30, will cover the costs of border inspections and will improve biosecurity by preventing plant and animal diseases from being imported into the UK.
The creation of this tax has drawn criticism from trade groups, who claim that the measure would increase business costs and lead to increased food prices, which would reduce consumer choices.
William Payne, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, finds this measure “deeply disappointing.” “The level of import duties shows little concern for the interests of businesses and consumers,” William Payne reveals.
“The fixed fees for bringing most animal and plant products into the UK are a blow to small and medium-sized importers. It is also deeply concerning for retailers, cafes and restaurants.”
