Importers are being urged to ensure they are complying with the new plant health regime.
The Fresh Produce Consortium is notifying its members to remind them to register with Defra and to be aware of inspection charges and invoicing procedures.
The FPC is also reminding importers to investigate methods of moving Customs clearance away from the port of entry.
Under the new regime, which was introduced on April 20, 2005, all consignments of plant health controlled material imported from outside the EU must be inspected prior to Customs clearance.
A registration form can be found at www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/regulat/forms/phealth/phi11.htm. Unregistered importers will find themselves subject to delays, the FPC warned.
For further information contact the FPC on 01733 237117.
