In the News Teaching Activity – post-Brexit regulations reduce UK food exports (Dec 2024)

Post-Brexit non-tariff barriers have led to a sharp decline in British food exports to the EU, costing the UK economy an estimated £3 billion annually, according to a new report.

Since Brexit, UK food and agricultural exports to the EU have fallen by over 16% annually, equivalent to nearly £2.82 billion, with businesses citing cumbersome new border checks and regulatory requirements as major obstacles. Formerly frictionless trade has been replaced with extensive paperwork, physical border checks, and health certifications, transforming the EU from the easiest to the hardest market for British food exporters. The additional costs, delays, and reduced product ranges have shrunk businesses, while proposals for a veterinary agreement remain unresolved. Experts warn that unresolved trade barriers risk further disruptions and price increases for both UK and EU consumers.

'Mind-boggling' Brexit rules hit British food exports by £3bn a year | Politics News | Sky News

1. How do regulatory requirements and non-tariff barriers impact the cost and efficiency of food exports? Use examples from the UK’s post-Brexit trade with the EU to illustrate your answer.

2. Explain how the EU single market facilitates trade among its members. What specific advantages did UK businesses lose when the country exited the single market?

3. What practical measures could the UK adopt to re-establish closer trade ties with the EU and mitigate the economic impacts of Brexit on food exports? Consider potential agreements, regulatory alignment, or technological solutions in your response.