Horticulture is an essential aspect of the UK and EU economies, providing not only a diverse range of plants and produce but also contributing to the overall beauty of our surroundings. However, in the wake of Brexit, the horticulture industry is facing severe disruptions and increased costs due to new post-Brexit border checks. This has prompted trade bodies from both the UK and the EU to come together and call for urgent government action to resolve the issues.

The horticulture trade bodies have been working tirelessly to overcome the challenges posed by the new border checks since the UK officially left the EU on January 1st, 2021. However, despite their efforts, the industry is now facing severe delays and rising costs, causing significant concerns for both producers and consumers.

One of the main reasons for these disruptions is the new requirement for plant health certificates for all horticultural products entering the UK from the EU. These certificates are necessary to ensure that the plants and produce meet UK biosecurity standards. However, the process of obtaining these certificates is proving to be time-consuming and costly, with many producers facing delays of up to three days.

This delay in obtaining the necessary certificates has resulted in significant backlogs at UK ports, causing delays in delivering horticultural products to their final destinations. This, in turn, is leading to increased costs for producers, who are now having to bear the additional expenses of storage and transportation.

The impact of these disruptions is being felt by both UK and EU producers, with many small and medium-sized businesses struggling to cope with the added costs and delays. As a result, industry leaders from both sides are calling on the government to take urgent action to resolve the issues and ensure the smooth flow of horticultural products between the UK and the EU.

In a joint statement, the trade bodies have highlighted the importance of the horticulture industry to the UK and EU economies, and the need for prompt action to protect it. They have also emphasized the impact of the delays on the availability and affordability of horticultural products for consumers.

The trade bodies have proposed several solutions to address the current challenges, including increasing the number of plant health inspectors and simplifying the process of obtaining plant health certificates. They have also urged the government to work closely with the industry to find practical and sustainable solutions that will benefit both producers and consumers.

The UK government has acknowledged the concerns raised by the horticulture industry and has assured that it is working with the relevant authorities to address the issues. However, with the delays and disruptions continuing to affect the industry, there is an urgent need for concrete action to be taken to avoid any further impact on the sector.

Despite the challenges posed by Brexit, the horticulture industry remains resilient and determined to overcome the obstacles. The trade bodies have highlighted the importance of collaboration and cooperation between the UK and the EU to find effective solutions that will benefit both sides.

In the meantime, consumers are being urged to support the horticulture industry by continuing to purchase their products and showing solidarity during this difficult time. The beauty and diversity of our surroundings are dependent on the success of the horticulture industry, and it is crucial that we work together to ensure its survival.

In conclusion, the horticulture trade bodies across the UK and EU are facing severe disruptions and increased costs due to new post-Brexit border checks. These challenges are having a significant impact on the industry, and urgent government action is needed to address them. However, with a collaborative effort and determination, the industry is confident that it can overcome these challenges and continue to thrive in the future. Let us come together to support the horticulture industry and ensure its success for the benefit of all.