UK Meat and Fish Exports to EU Plunge by Nearly Half Since Brexit, Trade Analysis Reveals
A new analysis of trade figures has highlighted a significant decline in UK meat and fish exports to the European Union (EU) since Brexit.
The data shows a sharp decrease in food trade, raising concerns about the impact of Brexit on the economy. The Labour Party is calling for a new veterinary deal with Brussels to alleviate the burdensome red tape faced by British businesses trading with EU member states.
These trade disruptions have led to job losses, increased prices, and threats to food security, according to Labour’s shadow environment secretary. Business leaders and food sector chiefs are joining the call for a UK-EU veterinary agreement to ease trade barriers and eliminate the need for additional checks on goods.
Analysis of government trade data by the Labour Party reveals a 42% decline in meat exports to EU countries, measured by weight, between December 2020 and March 2023. This significant drop in exports has been attributed to the burdensome checks and regulations imposed after Brexit.
The trade figures also indicate a 45% decrease in the net mass of fish, crustacean, and molluscs exports to the EU during the same period. The implementation of trade barriers and the introduction of new checks have hindered the smooth flow of seafood exports, posing challenges for the fishing industry.
By Nimrah Khatoon | BNN Network
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