The UK and EU have officially ratified a new set of agreements on 16 May, marking a significant step forward for Northern Ireland traders to fully leverage the UK's
independent free trade policy.
Under the new deal, over 13,000 tons of lamb, beef, and poultry, including products from key Free Trade Agreement partners such as Australia and New Zealand, will now fall under UK tariff rate quotas. This development promises substantial advantages for Northern Ireland businesses, reaffirming Northern Ireland's integral position within the UK.
This achievement comes after months of close collaboration with businesses and represents a notable milestone in fulfilling the Government's commitments to Northern Ireland's prosperity, as outlined in the Safeguarding the Union command paper published in February of this year. These new arrangements will complement the new UK Internal Market system and become effective from 30 September 2024.
The revamped quota system ensures that Northern Ireland businesses can access the same benefits and opportunities as their counterparts across the UK, while also providing adequate protection for farmers. It addresses a significant challenge posed by the previous Protocol, wherein businesses exporting goods could benefit from UK Free Trade Agreements, whereas those importing higher tariff products like meat into Northern Ireland could not leverage UK trading arrangements.
The agreement, reached in January 2024, has received positive feedback from Northern Ireland agri-food industry groups, including IMTA and NIMEA.
Minister of State for the Northern Ireland Office, Steve Baker, commented, "This significant achievement underscores the UK Government's dedication to maximizing trade and opportunities for Northern Ireland's businesses. This unique arrangement will enable Northern Ireland importers to benefit from UK Free Trade Agreements, solidifying Northern Ireland's position within the UK. I eagerly anticipate our ongoing efforts to safeguard the Union."
The International Meat Trade Association expressed its support, stating, "IMTA welcomes the ratification of the Tariff Rate Quota solution for meat imports into Northern Ireland. We have long advocated for a solution to address this trade barrier and facilitate this crucial supply to Northern Ireland. We look forward to collaborating with the government and industry to ensure its effective implementation later this year."
The deal was ratified by Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Vice President Maroš Šefčovič at today’s Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee meeting in Brussels. Comprehensive guidance will be provided to ensure that traders are prepared to benefit from the new arrangements.
Today's announcement underscores the Government's ongoing commitment to solidify Northern Ireland's place within the UK. Initiatives such as establishing horticulture and veterinary medicines working groups, lifting bans on certain species, and enhancing cooperation through the East-West Council demonstrate a concerted effort to address shared challenges and opportunities and further bolster Northern Ireland's economic prospects. Additionally, the Government's investment of £150 million in developing an Enhanced Investment Zone in Northern Ireland underscores its dedication to supporting businesses and capitalizing on the region's unique opportunities.