The UK Government introduced from 31 January 2024 new import control requirements for exports of EU agrifood and fishery products to GB and via GB landbridge including requirement for export health certification. The new UK requirements arise as a result of Brexit and UK decision to leave EU Single Market and Customs Union.
In respect of aquaculture animals (shellfish) exports via GB landbridge under the new UK requirements, these products require GB export health certification. My Department and relevant state agencies have engaged extensively with agrifood and fishery sector on these new requirements and are supporting provision export health certification for a wide range of exporters who meet all of the UK certification requirements.
The UK Government has not supplied a GB export health certification for wild aquatic animals (shellfish) therefore the Irish competent authorities cannot support the provision of certification.
In terms of access to EU markets for Irish shellfish it is important to note that transport of these products is still possible via the direct routes to Europe if GB landbridge route is not available.
My Department and relevant Government Agencies continue to monitor impacts of these new UK requirements and they continue to be discussed with industry stakeholders. These issues which arise as a result of changes introduced by UK Government are complex and challenging. The specific certification issues for wild aquatic animals (shellfish) have also been discussed with relevant Irish seafood agencies and I am continuing to examine these issues.
