In the light of its departure from the European Union, the United Kingdom is in the process of updating and streamlining its border control measures and mechanisms. In addition to the new UK Single Trade window and reduced regulatory burden for all imports, the proposed Border Target Operating Model will put in place new and state-of-the art Sanitary and Phytosanitary controls at the UK's borders. The measures will apply in respect of those regions in the UK territory that are not subject to a special arrangement. In respect specifically of imports of live animals, germinal products, animal products, plants and plant products, the approach under the new model will have the following three key elements:
• A new global risk-based approach: live animals, germinal products, products of animal origin, animal by-products, plants and plant products will be categorised as high, medium or low risk, with controls appropriately weighted against the risks posed both by the commodity and the country of origin;
• Simplified and digitised health certificates: phytosanitary certificates will be digitised in line with our trade partners' readiness, and will implement simplified and digitised export health certificates for animal products leading to more automated use of data;
• Use trust: pilot schemes with industry where authorised importers of plants, plant products and some animal products may be eligible for streamlined controls. To qualify they will need to provide the enhanced assurances and evidence that they are meeting the regulatory requirements and standards.
The development of the UK Single Trade Window will underpin this new approach to controls. This will provide a single digital gateway for both importers and exporters to provide the data needed to trade and apply for licences and authorisations for trusted trader schemes.
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