Register as a trader to import or export UK Agricultural Policy (UKAP) products
How to register with the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) to become an importer or exporter of UK Agricultural Policy (UKAP) goods.
You may need a licence to import or export the following agricultural products to or from the UK:
- cereals and rice
- olive oil
- pigmeat
- eggs
- poultry
- beef
- sugar
- fresh or processed fruit and veg (Including garlic and preserved mushrooms)
- milk and milk products
- hemp
- ethyl alcohol
Before you apply for a licence, you must register as a customer with RPA.
If you have registered as a customer in the past, you will not need to register again.
How to register with RPA
You should call 03000 200 301 to register. Tell the call handler you want to register as a Trader.
Trader number
Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive your six-digit trader number. This is your unique reference number which you should use when writing to or contacting RPA.
Who to contact
If you have any general queries about importing or exporting, call the Trader helpline on 03300 416500 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm).
Health certificates
For animal products, you need to follow the regulations on health certification. You can find out about these by contacting:
- the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
- Defra’s International Animal Health (IAH) Import Policy Team at iah-exports@defra.gov.uk
- the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) (in Northern Ireland).
Food safety
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) provides trade information sheets that contain important information on restrictions for additives, pesticides and contact materials. You will need to check the sheet for your type of product.