The UK government has started a six-week call for information to assist Northern Ireland businesses in preparing for a new Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement with the EU. The agreement targets smoother movement of agri-food goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland by eliminating most regulatory certificates, checks and paperwork.

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds stated that securing benefits for Northern Ireland guided the negotiations. She noted the deal will simplify movement of agri-food goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland and lower costs while preserving dual market access.

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn described the progress as a key step. He said it will speed up and cheapen exports and imports of food, animals and plants for British businesses by removing checks and paperwork for most trade. Benn added that it protects the UK internal market and supports commitments under the Good Friday Agreement.

Ulster Farmers' Union President William Irvine welcomed the negotiation advances. He said an SPS agreement will provide long-term certainty for the agri-food sector and level the playing field for UK farmers by easing goods movement from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

The government aims for the agreement to start in mid-2027. Businesses must continue following Windsor Framework rules during negotiations. Guidance will be issued to help farmers, processors, retailers and hauliers in Northern Ireland prepare.

Exports of food and agricultural products from the UK to the EU dropped 22% since 2018, equating to nearly £4 billion in real terms.