From 29 March 2019, in the event of a ‘no deal’, most fish and fish products will require a catch certificate for import or export between the UK and EU. This also applies to fishers who land fish directly into EU ports.
Catch certificates prove fish have been caught in line with established conservation and management measures. All non-EU countries are required to present catch certificates when trading with the EU.
The Welsh Government is holding a series of Brexit and Fisheries roadshow events over the coming week. The events are aimed at helping the industry prepare for Brexit, share information and provide support about what documents and certificates are needed in a post-Brexit world.
The Minister for the Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs said:
“Let me be clear, I believe the best outcome for the fishing industry is a deal. A no deal would have a devastating impact on the sector and must be avoided at all costs.
“However we need to plan ahead for all eventualities and our fishers need to be prepared for a no-deal Brexit. That is why they need to be aware of the processes they need to undertake to be able to transition smoothly to doing business outside of the EU.
“As a Government, we are doing all we can to support the sector prepare for Brexit and the challenges it brings. Our forthcoming roadshow events will help the fishing industry know what they need to do to prepare and help put them in a position to adapt to the changing markets. I urge all fishers to come along and find out more.”
A new IT system to process and issue export catch certificates, and other supporting documentation, is being developed to help streamline the process. Exporters will receive full instructions on how to register and use the new system before the UK leave the EU. Import catch certificates will continue to be processed through the current paper-based system.
In addition to documents required under IUU regulations, fish importers and exporters will also need to follow additional steps to comply with health and customs regulations, in the event of a ‘no deal’ EU Exit.
Fishers and fishing businesses can stay up to date with the latest advice on EU Exit on GOV.UK
To inform fishers of the new processes and address any questions, the Welsh Government is running a series of consultation events throughout January. Dates and venues are below.
16th January – Caernarfon, Celtic Royal Hotel, LL55 1AY
17th January – Holyhead, Standing Stones Pub, LL65 2UQ
22nd January – Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire Yacht Club, SA73 3RS.
23rd January – New Quay, Black Lion Hotel, SA45 9PT.
24th January – Barmouth, Merioneth Yacht Club, LL42 1HB.
30th January – Saundersfoot, Saundersfoot Sailing Club, SA69 9HE.
31st January – Bury Port, Bury Port Yacht club, SA16 0ER.
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