UK and EU Reach Deal to Eliminate Trade Barriers

The United Kingdom and the European Union have finalized a deal to remove the sanitary and phytosanitary checks imposed after Brexit. The pact covers a wide range of products including meat, cheese, flowers, and leather goods. Implementation of the new rules is scheduled for the first quarter of 2028.

The 200-page document eliminates the need for health and phytosanitary certificates that have made British exports more expensive since 2022. The British government estimates the measure could generate annual benefits of 5.1 billion pounds for the economy. The agreement is expected to add up to 0.4% to the United Kingdom's Gross Domestic Product.

As part of the understanding, the United Kingdom will adopt a process of dynamic alignment with European trade regulations. The country will also return to contributing to the European Union budget as a counterpart for reintegration into the single electricity market. The goal is to stabilize energy supply and allow sales to continental grids.

The final text is set to be discussed by ambassadors in Brussels and formalized at a summit scheduled for November 20. The agreement represents a significant shift in the trade relationship between the parties, aiming to reduce operational costs for small retailers and large exporters. The measure ends a period of intense negotiations over the barriers that affected the British agricultural sector.