UK and EU to Sign Horticulture Deal Saving £60 Million

Environment Secretary Angela Eagle announced that the United Kingdom and the European Union will sign a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal on November 20. The agreement aims to eliminate approximately £60 million in annual costs for the UK horticulture industry by removing most border checks and paperwork.

While the deal was largely settled in May, implementation is not expected until the first quarter of 2028. This timeline follows a pause in negotiations that occurred when Andy Burnham replaced Keir Starmer as prime minister. The delay allowed both parties to resolve complex disputes regarding fungicides and pesticides that are banned within the EU.

Industry leaders welcomed the move as a way to reduce food prices and restore collapsed exports. However, some businesses noted they cannot recoup previous investments in border infrastructure and are requesting pragmatic transition arrangements before the full 2028 rollout.