Businesses urged to take simple steps for smoother trade with the EU.
On 19 May 2025, the UK government and the European Union (EU) agreed to pursue a new Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement. This, together with the Windsor Framework, will make it easier for goods to move not just between the UK and the EU, but also within the UK itself, including smoother movements from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.
Who these changes will apply to - The SPS Agreement will apply differently across sectors. The main groups likely to be in scope of these are:
- Farmers and primary producers
- Food, feed and drink businesses
- Hauliers and logistics providers
- Importers and exporters of SPS goods
- Pesticide and biocide manufacturers and suppliers
- Retailers and wholesalers
- Seed, plant and horticultural suppliers
- Veterinarians
For some rules, there has been little divergence with the EU and the change you will see in your business will be minimal. For others, there will have been divergence since EU Exit and you may need to make changes.
It is the UK Government’s intent that the agreement will take effect in mid-2027, businesses in the agri-food sector are being encouraged to start getting ready now. This includes those that do not currently trade with the EU.
Practical steps businesses can take can be found in the What businesses can do now section.
For further information please select the following link: UK-EU SPS Agreement - Information for Businesses - GOV.UK
If you're new to exporting or looking at new markets, there are some key things that you'll need to know. Read Business Wales Export pages.