The proposed EU border regulations, focusing on biometric checks, could severely impact the timely delivery of fresh produce this holiday season.
- A leading trade organization warns that the new fingerprint system may cause significant logistical delays.
- Mandatory biometric checks at Dover for non-EU travelers could extend border waiting times considerably.
- The introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) may result in long queues, potentially hampering the flow of goods into the UK.
- Logistics experts are urging governmental action to mitigate potential disruptions to the supply chain.
A leading trade group recently voiced serious concerns about upcoming EU border regulations and their potential to impede fresh food deliveries, especially with the holiday season approaching. The changes involve a new fingerprint and facial recognition system aimed at strengthening EU border security, which can lead to logistical challenges.
The logistics sector is particularly apprehensive about the impact these rules will have at the port of Dover, where all non-EU travelers will be subject to biometric checks. These changes, set to be implemented by November 10, threaten to significantly delay processing times. For instance, a family of four traveling by car could see their wait time increase from less than a minute to seven minutes.
Such delays are not merely an inconvenience for travelers; they have broader economic implications. According to estimates, the cost of these border delays is approximately £1.30 per minute, potentially accumulating to an extra £1,100 per truck with a 14-hour delay. This, inevitably, leads to increased costs for consumers.
Logistics UK, which represents various transport sectors, highlighted the particular peril facing winter months, known as the “food shoulder,” when the UK’s reliance on imported food increases. Any delays could disrupt the vital flow of goods during this critical period.
The method of implementing these biometric checks involves distributing tablets to those in vehicles for self-scanning of fingerprints and photos while others boarding shuttles and trains are directed to designated booths.
Nichola Mallon from Logistics UK expressed fears over the larger impact on truck traffic if measures aren’t adjusted. “If the EES is implemented as planned, I’m afraid we’re facing huge upheaval in the supply chain,” she stated. There’s a pressing need for government intervention to manage public awareness and expectation regarding these border changes.
The impending EU border regulations present a significant threat to timely and cost-effective food supply chains this Christmas.
