The UK’s horticulture industry is pushing back against the government’s proposed plant health fee increases. The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), alongside the British Potato Trade Association (BPTA) and the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), is calling for an immediate pause. With just days left before the consultation deadline on 21 March, industry leaders warn that these changes will hit businesses hard.
They argue that the timing is wrong, the consultation lacks transparency, and the new fees will place unnecessary financial strain on an already pressured sector. The government is being urged to rethink its approach before the damage is done.
Industry Unites Against Fee Increases
The HTA, BPTA, and FPC have sent a joint letter to Baroness Hayman of Ullock at Defra, urging a reconsideration. Their main concerns include:
- Rising costs for businesses – The industry already faces labour cost hikes and higher taxes from the Autumn Budget. A fee increase would make things worse.
- Lack of transparency – The consultation does not provide clear data to justify the new charges.
- Poor service quality – Businesses are already struggling with delayed inspections and inconsistent service. Paying more for the same issues is unfair.
The letter demands a full review of plant health fees and an improved border control process before any changes take place.
Call for Fairer Plant Health Costs
HTA Chief Executive Fran Barnes has voiced frustration, highlighting that businesses already operate under strict regulations. The industry achieves 99.9% compliance at the border, yet fees continue to rise without efficiency improvements.
The HTA urges:
- A temporary halt to the fee increase.
- Better cost calculations and a more transparent process.
- Service improvements at APHA before businesses face higher fees.
As the consultation deadline nears, horticulturists, florists, and growers are encouraged to speak up. The HTA urges businesses to submit their responses and push for a fairer system.
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