Enhancing the Brexit Deal: Exploring the Impact of a UK-EU Veterinary Agreement on Agri-food Trade

Jun Du, Gregory Messenger, Oleksandr Shepotylo

Research output: Book/ReportOther report

Abstract

This study critically evaluates a proposed Veterinary Agreement between the UK and the EU, emphasising its role in facilitating agri-food trade by easing Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures. We assess the economic benefits, and legal and political viability of such an agreement. Our investigation is anchored in an extensive review of Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) and their impact on agri-food trade, focusing on the roles of Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) and the mixed effects of PTAs. We conclude that comprehensive PTAs, particularly those with enforceable SPS and agricultural provisions, significantly enhance agri-food trade. Their effectiveness is attributable to their detailed scope, legal enforceability, and their addressing of critical health and safety barriers. The impact of an agreement varies by its type and duration. We also consider the legal and political frameworks necessary for a successful UK–EU Veterinary Agreement. We propose several options for its legal structure and discuss the political and implementation implications of these. We conclude that strategically aligning the Veterinary Agreement with the existing Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) would maintain high standards while reducing compliance costs. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the potential UK–EU Veterinary Agreement's feasibility and strategic significance, offering valuable insights for policymakers, trade experts, and stakeholders in the agri-food sector. We position the agreement as a crucial component in future UK–EU relations and broader trade discussions.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages58
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2024

Publication series

NameCentre for Business Prosperity Research Papers
PublisherAston University

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