Target Operating Model Finally published

29 Aug 2023

The long awaited TOM has been published today. Headline timescales are shown below and FPC will be making a fuller statement later today.

You can find the published document here: Final_Border_Target_Operating_Model_gov.uk_version.pdf (publishing.service.gov.uk)

• The Border Target Operating Model incorporates feedback from the Draft Border Target Operating Model which was published in April 2023.
• The Border Target Operating Model confirms implementation of controls through three major milestones:
  • 31 January 2024 - The introduction of health certification on imports of medium risk animal products, plants, plant products and high risk food (and feed) of non-animal origin from the EU.
  • 30 April 2024 - The introduction of documentary and risk-based identity and physical checks on medium risk animal products, plants, plant products and high risk food (and feed) of non-animal origin from the EU. At this point Imports of Sanitary and Phytosanitary goods from the rest of the world will begin to benefit from the new risk based model.
  • 31 October 2024 - Safety and Security declarations for EU imports will come into force from 31 October 2024. Alongside this, we will introduce a reduced dataset for imports.
• The final Border Target Operating Model also confirms that new checks and controls will be introduced for Irish goods moving from Ireland directly to Great Britain. In accordance with the Windsor Framework, Northern Ireland businesses will retain unfettered access to their most important market in Great Britain, whether moving qualifying NI goods directly from Northern Ireland or indirectly through Irish ports. A full timeline for introduction of these controls is set out within the Border Target Operating Model.
• In developing the Border Target Operating Model the Government has been mindful of the small potential impact on inflation and has taken into account its firm commitment to bring the rate down. The estimated impact of the Border Target Operating Model on headline inflation is expected to be minor, standing at less than 0.2% across three years.

Nigel Jenney, CEO of the Fresh Produce Consortium, was quoted by the Cabinet Office statement :

“FPC welcomes the publication of the final Border Target Operating Model. It's clear, Government has acted upon our concerns and will now implement a unique border approach for the benefit of consumers and industry. This focussed risk-based approach will reinforce UK biosecurity and promote self-regulation to minimise supply chain disruption.

"Let’s be clear, challenges remain. However, this is a bold step forward to achieve our ambition to become a world-leading destination of choice promoting imports and exports of fantastic fresh produce, and flowers and plants.”

For the full Cabinet Office Press Statement; please click here: Cabinet Office Press Statement TOM 29 08 23