The UK flower industry just got a much-needed break. From April 2025, import duties will be suspended or reduced on a range of flower-related goods. This includes products vital for growing, processing, and distributing flowers. For florists and growers facing tight margins, this move brings some breathing space.
HTA spoke out on Facebook, stating: “Following the HTA’s advocacy and persuasive statistics, the government has confirmed a tariff suspension on all imported bulbs (commodity code 0601), effective April 27th and running until at least June 30th, 2027.
This suspension operates on a Most Favoured Nation (MFN) basis, allowing businesses to import bulbs from any country at zero duty. It’s designed to help UK businesses remain competitive by suspending import duties on goods used in domestic production or not grown/ produced in the UK in high volumes.”
According to the latest government update, 96 applications were reviewed in the 2024 window. Many of these focused on products used in flower growing or packaging. Those that met the criteria will now benefit from lower or zero tariffs. The new measures will last until June 2027, with a review due before that.
Positive Impact On Flower Imports
UK flower import duty suspensions mean you can bring in essential flower-related goods without paying full tariff rates. That includes:
- Bulbs, corms and rhizomes including orchids and hyacinths in flower
- Natural fertilisers and soil enhancers
- Floral preservatives and treatment agents
- Packing materials like biodegradable wraps
- Inputs where UK production is limited
Importing these products may result in significant cost reductions. These savings can be allocated toward growth initiatives or enhancements to retail operations. Furthermore, sourcing materials from outside the EU is permissible under Most Favoured Nation rules.
These changes support local flower shops and greenhouses by providing greater flexibility in global sourcing while maintaining product quality. This flexibility is essential in meeting customer expectations for fresh, well-kept blooms on every occasion.
UK Flower Import Duty: Key Considerations
- Eligibility: Any UK or Crown Dependency business can apply for duty suspensions during designated application windows.
- Northern Ireland Protocol: Importers in Northern Ireland must declare goods as ‘not at risk’ of moving to the EU to benefit from duty suspensions or ATQs.
- Additional Duties: Duty suspensions do not exempt importers from other charges like VAT or anti-dumping duties.
- Approval Criteria: Applications may be rejected if the product is already produced in sufficient quantities in the UK or Crown Dependencies.
- Data and Consultation: Trade data and stakeholder consultations influence decisions on duty suspensions and ATQs.
Some flower-related suspensions from 2021 and 2023 have also been extended to 2026. That gives growers more stability. To benefit, work closely with suppliers now. Get updated on product codes and confirm your goods qualify under the updated lists.
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