Defra has confirmed that formal checks on live animal imports from the EU at the point of entry will not be starting in 2024 as originally planned, in another delay to the implementation of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM).
When Defra published the BTOM, it indicated that late 2024 was the target date for implementing the controls on live animals. At this point, the intention was that physical inspections of EU live animal imports would move away from the final destination to be conducted at a UK Border Control Post, bringing them in line with the existing controls for Rest of the World countries.    Â
However, it now appears that the relevant BCP facilities will not be ready in time and Defra has confirmed that, after reviewing its position and after regular engagement with key trade associations, BTOM live animal import controls will not start during 2024. It will provide a further update on the timeline for implementation ‘by summer 2025’.
It added that, in the intervening period, it will continue to maintain the existing system of ‘effective controls on ROW imports through BCPs, and controls on EU & EFTA imports at destination’.