US industry welcomes UK decision to extend zero import tariff on California prunes
US industry body the California Prune Board (CPB) has applauded the UK government’s decision to extend an import tariff suspension on California prunes.
The announcement was made following the Autumn Budget on 30 October as part of a raft of extensions affecting UK imports of food.
Effective until 30 June 2026, the continued suspension of the 8 per cent tariff on prunes follows the 2021 application led by the CPB through the Nut & Dried Fruit Trade Association (NDFTA), on behalf of its UK trade members.
Commenting on the move, Esther Ritson-Elliott, director of international marketing and communications for the CPD, said: “The decision to continue the tariff suspension gives dried fruit importers easy access to premium prunes and UK consumers more choice. It also keeps California Prune growers on a level playing field with competitors.”
She added: “The California Prune industry is known for its exceptional growing conditions, leading agricultural and sustainability standards, and sophisticated harvesting and drying techniques, all of which contribute to high-quality, naturally sweet prunes. What is more, our supply is consistent and reliable, with California Prunes sought after by consumers looking for the best tasting, versatile, and nutritious prunes.”
The extension to the tariff suspension on prunes follows the UK government’s suspension this year of the 16 per cent import tariff on prune juice and prune juice concentrate from April 2024 until at least 30 June 2026.
