Decline in British Farm Exports to the EU Post-Brexit

Since the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union in 2020, exports of British farm products to the EU have experienced a significant decline, dropping nearly 40% over five years. Analysis by the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) reveals that sales of various products, including British beef and cheddar cheese, have decreased by 37.4% since 2019, the last full year before Brexit. The poultry sector has been particularly affected, with exports down 37.7%, followed by beef at 23.6%, lamb at 14%, and dairy at 15.6%.

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

Tom Bradshaw, president of the NFU, emphasized that while not all of the decline can be attributed solely to Brexit, it underscores the substantial damage inflicted by the UK's departure from the EU. He cautioned that merely reducing trade friction would not automatically restore the EU market for British products, stating, “Simply reducing friction doesn’t mean we are going to get the EU market back again.” He noted that rebuilding demand would require time, effort, and a focused approach.

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

In light of these challenges, the UK and EU are planning to establish regular political phone meetings to facilitate discussions regarding farming and other trade issues. These negotiations aim to address potential problems proactively ahead of the next leaders’ summit scheduled for May or June. A government source indicated that there is a mutual interest in enhancing political engagement to resolve issues and advance negotiations effectively.

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

In the near term, the NFU is advocating for a deal that allows British farmers adequate time to adapt to new regulations that will affect the Great Britain market. They are also seeking specific exemptions to protect areas of progress and innovation. Bradshaw pointed out that the UK has been quicker than the EU in approving gene editing for disease-resistant crops and other agricultural advancements. He argued that if the EU intends to adopt similar practices, it should not hinder the UK's progress, stating, “My argument to the EU is if you genuinely want to adopt this in the EU, don’t put the handbrake on the UK.”

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

The collapse of discussions regarding the UK's full participation in the EU’s €150 billion Safe defence programme has been criticized as a failure of statecraft. The EU had proposed a €2 billion entry fee, while the UK was only willing to contribute “hundreds of millions.” Observers believe that this gap could have been bridged through political dialogue, especially given the shared interest in strengthening European defense amid a perceived US retreat.

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

• “Simply reducing friction doesn’t mean we are going to get the EU market back again.” — Tom Bradshaw, President, National Farmers’ Union

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

• “My argument to the EU is if you genuinely want to adopt this in the EU, don’t put the handbrake on the UK,” Bradshaw said.” — Tom Bradshaw, President, National Farmers’ Union

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%

The decline in British farm exports to the EU post-Brexit highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the agricultural sector. As negotiations continue, the NFU's calls for transitional support and recognition of the UK's advancements in agricultural practices will be crucial in shaping the future of UK-EU trade relations.

Post-Brexit sales of British farm products to EU fall by 37%