The UK government has published more detail on the scope of the new SPS agreement with the EU and which sectors the deal will focus on to help all businesses understand and prepare for what is ahead.
The projected date is mid-2027 for the new agreement and the government wants businesses in the agri-food sector to start getting ready now. This includes those that do not currently trade with the EU.
The costs to businesses expected to be removed by the deal include:
- Export Health Certificates costing up to £200 for agri-food goods
- Phytosanitary Certificates costing approximately £25 alongside inspection fees of at least £127.60
- Organic Certificates of Inspection, required for the export of organic lamb and cheese, costing on average £35
- Port Health Authority (PHA) identity check fees on meat and dairy exports adding £31 per load on average
- Sampling which can add approximately £1,200 to a cheese load, £1,400 to a salmon shipment, £440 to a load of apples, and £1,200 to a beef load.
Under the deal, the government has committed UK businesses involved in the production or processing of plants, food, animals and animal products to aligning with EU rules. This applies to domestic producers and those trading with the rest of the world, meaning businesses that do not currently export may also need to adapt their practices.
Businesses should continue to follow the current trading requirements until any new agreement takes effect.