The final Border Target Operating Model

What is the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM)?

The UK government published a draft ‘Border Target Operating Model’ in April 2023, which is applicable to imports from all countries into Great Britain, including the EU. The Border Target Operating Model highlights the UK government’s approach to safety and security controls and sanitary and phytosanitary controls. The safety and security controls relate to all imports, whereas the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls relate to imports of live animals, animal products, plants and plant products.

The Border Target Operating Model outlines the need for effective border controls and the need to support businesses with import processes that are as simple as possible. The new controls are seen as essential in maintaining UK security and biosecurity and will better protect the UK population and environment from invasive pests and diseases, protect public health, deliver food that is safe to eat whilst maintaining security of supply for consumers, and disrupt criminal activity before it can harm UK communities.

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