EFRA Committee Publishes Report on UK–EU SPS Trade Agreement

The House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Select Committee has published its report, “UK–EU agritrade: making an SPS agreement work.”

AIC contributed to the inquiry by providing evidence on the need for a practical, science‑based Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS)  framework that supports UK agriculture, protects regulatory autonomy, and ensures frictionless trade where possible. AIC evidence on crop protection, alignment on Maximum Residue Limits and precision breeding are cited in the report.

The Committee’s report outlines the potential benefits of an SPS agreement, including reducing costs, easing border checks, and strengthening supply chain resilience.

It also emphasises the importance of securing exemptions in key areas such as animal welfare, plant protection products, mycotoxins, and precision breeding.

Clear communication with industry and a realistic implementation timeline for any regulatory changes are also highlighted as critical factors for success.

AIC welcomes the publication of this report and will continue to engage with Government as SPS negotiations progress.