FPC urges government to rethink UK-EU reset

The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has called on the government to revise its planned UK-EU reset, warning that proposed changes to border controls could increase costs for imported fruit, vegetables and flowers.

In a letter sent to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham on 23 July, the FPC urged the government to make adjustments to keep the UK’s existing science-based checks for ‘Rest of World’ produce destined for UK consumers, while pursuing closer EU arrangements in parallel. 

The reset, which is slated to take effect by mid-2027, would overhaul trade with a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement that would increase checks. It could increase costs, delays and food prices as a result, the FPC argues. 

The consortium does not oppose the reset altogether, but believes a more pragmatic approach would protect prices, biosecurity, UK-EU trade, and global supply chains at the same time. 

Nigel Jenny, chief executive of the FPC, said: “Let me be clear: we are not asking anyone to lower standards, and we are not asking Britain to fix one trade problem with Brussels by creating a far bigger one at home. 

“Our solution protects the EU’s own SPS zone too – the UK’s customs border already prevents this produce ever being re-exported into Europe. Standards are safeguarded on every side. This is common sense, not compromise.”

The intervention comes as Burnham unveils a package of measures aimed at easing the cost of living in the UK.  

The FPC estimates that the plan would add over £300mn a year to the cost of fruit, vegetables and flowers Britain imports from beyond Europe.

Around half of all the fresh produce the UK imports comes from these  countries, including citrus, mangoes, blueberries, sweet potatoes and peppers.

In its letter, copied to incoming Defra secretary Dame Angela Eagle, the consortium requested that government engages formally with the industry on the practical solutions already submitted before final decisions are taken.