The EU is open to the UK rejoining a trade deal as Starmer’s government explores options for better relations with Europe
London: So, it looks like the EU might be considering letting the UK back into a trade deal. Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s trade chief, mentioned that Sir Keir Starmer’s government is looking to reset things with Europe. He said they could think about the UK joining the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention, which is pretty interesting.
This PEM deal would allow for tariff-free trade across Europe and even some North African countries. Some business folks are all for it since it could help keep supply chains running smoothly. But remember, the last Conservative government didn’t want to go down that road after Brexit.
During a chat at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Sefcovic said they haven’t nailed down the details yet, and right now, it’s up to the UK to make a move. The UK government is already talking to businesses about how this PEM plan could cut down on red tape and boost trade.
He also mentioned that he’d like to revisit the idea of a veterinary agreement between the EU and the UK. If they could sort that out, it would mean UK food products could get treated like they’re part of the single market. But that would require both sides to stick to the same rules and keep them updated together.
The absence of a veterinary agreement has been a real headache for UK food businesses trying to export to nearby countries. It’s definitely something they need to figure out.
