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CLECAT welcomes the outcome of the recent EU–UK Summit held on 19 May 2025 and the accompanying joint statements outlining a renewed agenda for cooperation. These developments signal a long-awaited shift towards practical and pragmatic collaboration in key areas affecting customs, logistics and trade facilitation.

Particularly relevant to our members is the commitment to negotiate a dedicated EU–UK Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement, which would significantly reduce friction in agri-food trade by eliminating the need for certificates and controls on most movements between Great Britain and the EU. CLECAT strongly supports this objective, which has the potential to ease longstanding operational burdens for supply chains while ensuring a high level of consumer protection and biosecurity. We encourage both sides to maintain transparency and include economic operators in the consultation process as negotiations advance.

The Summit also marked a clear intention to improve border management processes. Notably, the EU and the UK agreed to explore expanded use of eGates and digital solutions, which CLECAT views as an important step toward more efficient passenger and freight movements. The reaffirmed commitment to smooth and secure border procedures aligns with our longstanding call for pragmatic solutions that reduce delays and compliance burdens.

We also welcome the commitment to link the UK and EU Emissions Trading Schemes, with a view to mutual recognition under respective Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM). Such a move would offer much-needed legal clarity and predictability for companies trading in carbon-intensive goods. CLECAT expects timely progress to avoid disruption as CBAM obligations enter into force.

Furthermore, the newly concluded Security and Defence Partnership includes provisions for enhanced maritime security cooperation, including sharing of information related to illicit activities and threats to critical infrastructure. CLECAT supports this broader strategic alignment, recognising the role of secure logistics networks in safeguarding Europe’s economic and physical resilience.