The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has decided against allowing importers and agents to perform their own plant health checks under the 'Authorised Operator Status' (AOS) framework. This decision follows a six-month trial, where the feasibility and benefits of AOS were evaluated. Eight businesses participated in this pilot, which took place from June to December 2024. During the trial, participants were trained to carry out examinations on imports under the supervision of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
The AOS model was initially proposed as part of the 2023 Border Target Operating Model (BTOM). The goal was to enable eligible traders to manage their own sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) risks by performing their own checks on plants and plant products. However, the pilot's evaluation identified several hurdles in scaling AOS, specifically in terms of providing value for money for taxpayers. A significant investment in IT infrastructure would be required, presenting challenges in maintaining biosecurity on a national scale. Consequently, Defra concluded that the AOS model does not provide a feasible value-for-money solution.
Simultaneously, the context for SPS controls has shifted. The UK and the European Union have reached a common understanding to proceed with an SPS Agreement. Once finalized, this agreement will facilitate the smooth flow of agrifood and plant products between Great Britain and the EU. Moreover, the UK Government announced that no checks would be introduced for fruit and vegetables entering Great Britain from the EU in July 2025.
Considering these developments, Defra has opted not to advance the AOS at this time. Traders designated as Control Points (CP) can continue to have their goods checked on-site by APHA inspectors, maintaining their CP status.
Defra communicated these findings to all businesses involved in the pilot and published the information on the Plant Health Portal for widespread access by stakeholders. Further inquiries can be directed to the Plant Health Team.
Source: FPC
