Preparing for the end of the transition period

The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020 and is in the transition period until 31 December 2020.

During the transition period, the UK is no longer a member of the EU’s political structures. However, it remains in the Single Market, Customs Union and Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). In practice, this means that EU rules continue to apply. The UK continues to trade as if it is an EU member state - with no changes to current import/export practices - until the end of 2020.

Guidance for seafood businesses

Our guidance will help you to prepare your seafood business for the end of the transition period. It focusses on the day-to-day scenarios likely to be encountered. This includes food safety, traceability and trade, but does not cover issues arising from the UK’s future relationship with the EU.

We will continue to review and amend it as circumstances evolve.

Section 1 - General

Last updated: Friday 1 November 2019

1.1 Will there still be different rules across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland? +

1.2 What status will the European Court of Justice (ECJ) have in regard to the UK seafood industry? +

1.3 What status will EU scientific bodies such as EFSA etc. have? +

1.4 When EU legislation is rolled over to become UK law, what will happen to legislation in force but not currently applicable? +

1.5 Where will I be able to view the applicable legislation after exit day? +

1.6 What does ‘falling back on WTO rules’ mean? What impact would this have? +

1.7 What is the status of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)? +