Brexit trade tariffs will be applied to agricultural imports from 1 January 2021 under Government proposals, potentially protecting domestic producers against cheaper import prices and lower food standards.
UK-Japan trade talks are to open shortly, now the UK has published its negotiating objectives for a free trade agreement, but industry representatives have described the timing as ‘challenging’.
The EU’s ask over fisheries is the “most ambitious” in its negotiations with the UK, the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove has told a committee in the House of Lords.
The Government has been urged to keep to a “level playing field” on food standards to help protect UK farmers and producers in the wake of trade agreements.
Pressure on Government to safeguard the UK food and drink supply chain post-Brexit continues to increase, as industry bodies urged negotiators not to sacrifice jobs and standards in pursuit of trade deals outside the EU.
Brexit uncertainty and delays at the border will mean the shellfish sector suffers “disproportionately”, according to Luke Pollard, Labour (Co-operative) MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport and shadow environment secretary.
George Eustice, secretary of state for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), has dismissed claims that fishing will be used as a bargaining chip in the UK’s trade agreement with the EU.
The availability of seasonal staff, increasing cost pressures and the rise of veganism are all key challenges that will shape the future of food and drink in the UK, according to Regency Purchasing Group.
The UK will be at risk of higher food prices, reduced supply of short shelf-life goods and a lack of choice as a result of border friction with the EU, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC).
UK-based fish processors are pushing for the Government to close trade deals with countries outside the EU, such as Norway and Iceland, as negotiations with the EU and UK are set to heat up over fishing rights.
