UK and EU horticulture firms warn of harm caused by post-Brexit border delays

The Sevington inland border facility in Ashford, Kent. New border post checks are adding at least 25% to firms’ costs, according to trade bodies. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Nurseries and garden centres across Britain and Europe have warned that new post-Brexit border posts are not working properly and are leading to delays, damage and significant extra costs for importers bringing plants into Britain.

The Horticultural Trade Association, which represents 1,400 garden retailers and growers in the UK, has joined forces with several European trade bodies to write an open letter to call for urgent solutions, warning the new system was adding more than 25% to import costs.