THE FRESH Produce Consortium is seeking views from members on proposed amendments to the EU's simplified procedure values (SPVs) for calculating import duty.

The European Commission is considering abolishing the SPVs system which collates prices from across the EU for a specific range of products from which the European Commission then calculates SPVs that are published fortnightly. The system may be abolished by year-end.

"If the system is abolished, one possible outcome is that individual member states may devise their own system for appropriate customs values," said Nigel Jenney, FPC chief executive. "We are now in discussion with Defra and HM Customs & Excise about the future of SPVs."

If the UK sets up its own SPV system, the range of products that the existing system is used for would be reduced. "It is likely that alternative methods of duty calculation would have to be used for a range of products which may include the following: beans, leeks, asparagus (other than green), aubergine, Chanterelle mushrooms, sweet potato, limes, watermelons, raspberries, bilberries and pomegranates. Although this is not an exhaustive or agreed list," said Jenney.

The FPC is calling for comments on the prospects of the removal of the scheme and members' thoughts on any alternative replacement method.

The FPC can be contacted by email at info@freshproduce.org.uk.

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