Last chance to have your say on the UK–EU agri-trade agreement
You can help shape the future of agri-trade with the EU. As SPS agreement negotiations take place, share your feedback on border controls for food, animal and plant products
The UK and EU are at early stages of negotiating a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement, intended to make the trade and movement of agri‑food goods easier, cheaper and more predictable.
If agreed, the SPS agreement could reduce paperwork, inspections and border delays for UK businesses. However, this would involve a requirement for the UK to align with relevant EU legislation that would apply to all producers, not only those trading with the EU.
There are also risks and uncertainties associated with an SPS agreement that members should be aware of. Negotiations will cover the extent of the UK’s ability to influence future EU SPS legislation, how alignment would operate in practice and what consequences might follow if the UK chooses not to implement, or was found to be acting unlawfully in relation to, new or amended EU rules.
While these points are currently unconfirmed, it is possible that the UK would move from its current position as a rule‑maker to a more limited ‘rule‑taker’ role, with reduced input into future EU legislation that would nonetheless apply domestically. This could result in some loss of democratic control or domestic flexibility over SPS standards.
Your feedback is critical
Defra has launched a formal Call for Information, closing Thursday 23 April, to gather evidence from businesses and representative organisations on the likely benefits, costs and practical implications of an SPS agreement. The CLA will be submitting a response but it’s important that member experiences and views are fully reflected in negotiations. Member feedback is critical to ensure that any eventual agreement, if reached, is grounded in practical evidence and properly considers both opportunities and risks for rural businesses.
You can either respond directly by email (jack.chivers@cla.org.uk) or complete the short questionnaire above by 5pm Tuesday 21 April.
Your input will be used to inform the CLA’s response to Defra and support evidence‑based engagement with the government on transition arrangements, safeguards and support for the rural economy.
