Taking effect from 31 January, there will be new import checks on products from EU, EEC, and European Free Trade Area countries, which will apply to all small importers and import agents.

The Border Target Operating Model sets out the new approach to Safety and Security controls (applying to all imports), and Sanitary and Phytosanitary controls (applying to imports of live animals, germinal products, animal products, plants and plant products) at the border. It sets out how controls will be delivered through simplification, digitisation and the UK’s new Single Trade Window.

For Safety and Security controls, the new model will minimise trader burdens and maintain border security while remaining aligned with international standards.

For more information on the new model, you can view the full guidance by visiting www.gov.uk.