At Oswestry livestock auction, which is just over the English side of the border, director John Bevan warned that the new rules could have a “massive impact,” particularly during the busy autumn trading season. Since a large percentage of animals sold there cross into Wales, many unsold animals would need to be tested before being allowed to return—adding both delays and significant expense.

The costs associated with the new testing requirements are steep. Each bluetongue test can run up to £70 per animal and is only valid for seven days, meaning repeat testing may be required for animals not quickly moved or sold. Farmers say this adds an unsustainable burden to their operations, especially in markets like Oswestry where about 80% of livestock is traded cross-border.

Welsh farmer Helen Roberts expressed frustration, stating that she may have to bypass Oswestry entirely in favor of more distant Welsh-based auctions to avoid the red tape. For her and many others living and working within just a few miles of the border, the requirement feels “ridiculous” and unnecessarily disruptive.