K fishermen were facing a growing crisis today as they were forced to halt exports to the European Union because of a mountain of bureaucracy.
Many Scottish fishermen have paused exports after post-Brexit bureaucracy added days to their delivery times and hundreds of pounds to their costs, according to Reuters.
They warned their businesses could become unviable after the introduction of health certificates, customs declarations and other paperwork.
Meanwhile Cornish fishermen said their catches were being left to rot due to the bureaucracy holding up exports to the EU during the first working week after Brexit.
Donna Fordyce, chief executive at Seafood Scotland, said: “The last 48 hours has really delivered what was expected – new bureaucratic non-tariff barriers, and no one body with the tools to be able to fix the situation. It’s a perfect storm for Scottish seafood exporters.”
Parcel courier DPD UK said it was pausing its road delivery services into Europe until at least Wednesday, due to “more complex processes”, and additional customs data requirements for parcels destined for Europe.
Marks and Spencer also warned that the Brexit trade deal was set to “significantly impact” its EU stores’ sales as highly complex paperwork throws delays into its system.
Dutch high street shop Hema has suspended its UK website with a statement on its website saying: “We are unable to confirm at this moment when the HEMA UK webshop will reopen due to the uncertainty of the pandemic.
“The Brexit trade deal will also have an impact on this decision however we aim to keep you informed on any new developments as soon as possible.”
Classicist and TV presenter Dame Mary Beard also revealed she had experienced problems ordering items from a shop in the Netherlands. She tweeted: “I have an online purchase (bit of household stuff) which is coming from the Netherlands… (yes, why?!).
“Ordered in December. Just got an email to say that it won’t be sent yet because of Brexit. Is this a true problem, or an easy excuse? Has anyone else had this?”
A Government source said they were aware of a “small number of issues” relating to the movement of fish and seafood due to some information not being entered correctly into UK and French systems. They said the systems were working and they were working closely with them to keep their goods moving.
A Government spokesperson said: “Businesses and hauliers have made huge strides to get ready but we were always clear that there would be some disruption at the end of the transition period.
“Although many businesses have moved goods successfully since 1 January, we are aware of some issues, and are providing guidance and support.”
