The Road Haulage Association in the Uk has welcomed the announcement of a new Common Sanitary and Phytosanitary Area, which promises to ease food import and export processes between the UK and EU by reducing costs and delays for cross-border goods movements.
The agreement will remove certain checks on food and drink exports, including in both directions between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, eliminating certificates and controls in this area that have hampered trade flows and freight movements.
RHA Managing Director, Richard Smith said: “The initial news coming out of the summit will be welcomed by businesses, specifically those operating in Northern Ireland, as if implemented, these changes will potentially reduce friction and enable smoother trade between GB and NI and within the UK internal market. While more technical details are still emerging, these initial changes are welcome.”
However, the RHA continues to express concerns over other Windsor Framework specific regulations, citing ongoing lack of clarity and real-time communication in a range of areas. (Including the definition of ‘at risk’, and the current TSS model.)
“We again urge Ministers to recognise the significant ongoing impact on the Northern Ireland supply chain” added Richard.
The Association noted that while the EU remains the UK’s largest trading partner, recent years have seen a marked decline in exports, negatively affecting economic growth. Although reduced red tape and streamlined border procedures should help address trade reduction, the RHA remains concerned about driver availability.
“British international hauliers, coach operators and live event hauliers working in Europe are currently restricted by the 90/180-day rule. We welcome further UK-EU talks on this critical issue.
“We await further technical details on all commitments and will continue monitoring developments closely while remaining ready to collaborate with decision makers and trusted partners on finding solutions.”