By Fatma Younis
The UK and EU are negotiating a new post-Brexit agreement that could eliminate checks on food and agricultural products, potentially adding £5.1 billion annually to the British economy.
Sanitary and phytosanitary agreement details
A draft Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) trade deal from the EU side proposes removing much of the red tape that has hindered exporters since the UK left the single market. The government estimates the deal could boost the economy by up to £5.1 billion per year.
Food exports to benefit
British farmers could regain access to EU markets for fresh sausages, burgers, some shellfish and seed potatoes. Currently, goods from Great Britain face 100% documentary checks and up to 30% physical checks; an SPS deal would remove these entirely.
Certificate and fee reductions
The agreement could scrap export health certificates costing £200, phytosanitary certificates at £25, and organic inspection certificates averaging £35. Inspector fees of at least £127.60, port fees, and sampling costs — such as £1,200 per cheese load and £1,400 per salmon shipment — would also be eliminated.
Pet passports to return
British pet owners could see the return of multi-use pet passports for travel to the EU, replacing the current requirement for animal health certificates.
Political context
The deal would mark a significant shift in UK-EU relations under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who has sought closer ties with the bloc while ruling out rejoining the EU in this parliament. Negotiations continue ahead of an EU summit on 20 November where three agreements covering food, emissions trading and youth mobility are expected.
