Posted on February, 6, 2025 at 05:19 pm
The move towards introducing a digital passport for grain movements has taken another step forward, as industry stakeholders have now reached a shared understanding of its design.
For over a decade, discussions have taken place about shifting away from the current paper-based passport system. Advocates believe that adopting a digital format would enhance the efficiency and accuracy of food and feed safety data exchange.
In its latest update, the Digital Passport Leadership Group announced that the project had reached a 'significant milestone', with key industry organisations now 'aligned on the concept of a digital passport'.
The levy-funded organisation AHDB has also confirmed its commitment to covering the ongoing costs of the system once the transition is complete.
An update released on January 31 confirms that an agreement has also been reached regarding how the digital passport will operate in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The Leadership Group is made up of representatives from NFU, the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC), the Maltsters’ Association of Great Britain, and UK Flour Millers.
NFU Scotland, which withdrew from the initiative last year, has now signalled its approval for the project to proceed without its direct involvement.
Meanwhile, in Northern Ireland, the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) will continue to engage with the project in an 'observer' role.
Initially, the digital passport system will be introduced in England and Wales, with provisions allowing Scottish businesses to adopt it at a later stage.
The group also intends to meet with Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner in March to push for financial backing to support the system’s development, trial phase and full implementation.
"Final review, due diligence and benchmarking is being undertaken on the budget and delivery options," the Leadership Group stated.
"This is being considered now with a focus on ensuring the right level of support is in place to enable a smooth transition across the supply chain.
"Once complete, the business case will be revised and shared with industry."
Source: South West Farmer