Import Legislation
About 80% of the fish we consume in the UK comes from abroad, either from other European Union countries or from non-EU countries.
Imports of fish and seafood from outside the EU are very strictly regulated. There are requirements for health certification and traceability for all imports and further guarantees in other specific consignments.
The importer has to deal with several different government bodies and to provide them with the documentation they require. Goods are allowed into circulation only when the various authorities are satisfied with the information you provide.
Seafish has produced a guide to Seafood Imports: Legislation and Official Procedures, available to view online or as a downloadable document (the downloadable guide was last updated in August 2010).
It includes:
- Regulation
- How import legislation is shaped by international, European and
UK law.
- The main legislation
- Who does what in the UK
- What veterinary checks are and what they cover
- Border Inspection Post procedures
- Rejected consignments
- Official web site addresses for information
For more information contact:
Ivan Bartolo
e: i_bartolo@seafish.co.uk
t: 01422 846740
Improving quality
Seafood is a valuable product but it is highly perishable and needs to be handled properly throughout all stages of the distribution chain to ensure it reaches the consumer in the best condition.