Since April 2024, all imports of animal by-products from the EU which require an import authorisation, have been covered by one of four authorisations published here. This means importers do not currently need to apply to the APHA for a specific import authorisation for their goods.
In a change to published guidance, the introduction of the requirement for importers to apply to the APHA for a specific import authorisation for their goods, from 1 February 2025, will not go ahead.
Where no health certificate is required, importers can continue to import their goods with only a commercial document travelling with the consignment, using one of the appropriate general import authorisations published on gov.uk. The authorisation does not have to travel with the consignment unless the authorisation states otherwise.
New general import authorisations are currently under development for certain types of products from the EU, which may introduce new import conditions for these products, to ensure animal and public health is protected. These will be published here and sufficient time will be given to traders before their use is required.
**The above does not apply to goods originating in non-EU countries, transiting the EU on their way to the UK. These goods will continue to follow existing rules for importing ABP from non-EU countries to Great Britain.
Relevant Import Information Notes will also be updated to indicate when new general import authorisations have been published for different types of ABP.
It is the responsibility of the importer to ensure that the most up-to date and appropriate general import authorisation is being used before importing their goods. If there isn’t a relevant import information note, your goods may still need an import authorisation. If in doubt, please contact your relevant Port Health Authority.
You can find out whether your goods need an import authorisation by checking the relevant import information note.
Guidance on gov.uk will shortly be updated to reflect this change. We will communicate with traders once guidance is available.
Need further support?
We offer customs advice on export and import matters, simply call our team at 0161 393 4314 or email us at international@gmchamber.co.uk
Need to upskill your team on importing procedures? check our training and events calendar
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