British vegetable farmers fear for their crops
New post-Brexit import rules have British vegetable farmers worried about their harvest. The regulations for importing seed from the EU could lead to weeks-long delays and have serious consequences for cultivation and financial yields, two British farming associations warned in the Guardian newspaper.
Since April 30, imports of animal and plant products from the EU have been controlled. Some seeds, including tomatoes, peppers, and rapeseed, must now be tested both in the country of origin and in the UK, said Phil Morley of the British Tomato Growers’ Association. This delay threatens British food security as more imports are now needed.
British tomato and pepper producers rely on imports of seeds or young plants from EU countries like the Netherlands. The associations are calling for an agreement with the EU for mutual recognition of testing standards.
The new import regulations have significantly impacted British tomato and pepper producers, requiring seeds from EU countries like the Netherlands to undergo testing in both the EU and UK, leading to potential delays. Without a swift resolution, these delays could potentially disrupt the New planting seasons and negatively affect crop yields.
