UK approves tariff-free meat imports from Australia and NZ

Windsor Framework Trade Deal: Tariff-Free Meat Imports for Northern Ireland

The UK and EU have ratified an important change to the Windsor Framework trade deal. This update gives Northern Ireland (NI) businesses wider access to UK free trade agreements.

Previously, NI importers could not benefit from tariff-free arrangements on certain meat products. Higher tariffs created barriers that the rest of the UK did not face. Now, the new deal allows over 13,000 tonnes of lamb, beef and poultry from Australia and New Zealand to enter NI tariff-free under UK tariff rate quotas. However, any imports above this quota will still face tariffs.

The move is already being welcomed. Steve Baker, UK Minister of State for Northern Ireland, described the change as a unique arrangement. He said it would “further cement Northern Ireland’s place in the UK”. Moreover, he stressed the importance of including safeguards in free trade deals to prevent the market from being flooded with low-priced imports.

At the same time, the government has promised to introduce legislation to secure this commitment in law. This step will provide clarity and reassurance to importers and suppliers. As a result, NI businesses will be able to plan more confidently for the months ahead.

For the meat trade, the benefits are clear. Wholesalers, caterers and processors now have the chance to diversify sourcing, access competitive pricing, and strengthen their supply chains with trusted partners in Australia and New Zealand.

In summary, the updated Windsor Framework trade deal delivers both opportunity and stability. It supports Northern Ireland’s role within the UK market while opening doors to high-quality global meat imports.