With trade talks between the EU and the UK going down to the wire, we’re still not sure if the two sides can reach an agreement before the end of the transition period, at the end of this year.
We are also eagerly awaiting further details on the political agreement reached on implementation of the withdrawal agreement between the two co-chairs of the EU-UK Joint Committee, Vice-President Šefčovič and the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Michael Gove MP, on 8 December – particularly in relation to Northern Ireland trading arrangements.
We reiterate the importance of reaching a trade agreement for the development of the enormously important trade relationship between the EU and the UK. Should an agreement not be possible, this would be very negative indeed. Most importantly, with so few working days left before the end of the transition period, getting the latest information to prepare our members for trading in the New Year post-Brexit is no longer an important ask, it’s a vital need.
Fortunately, while certain elements are contingent on a deal being agreed and on the rapid publication of all the details in relation to the implementation of the withdrawal agreement, a great many elements are known already and will not change, regardless of the outcome of trade talks.
We have strived to support our members in preparing for these eventualities, sharing information through Q&As and guidance and taking the lead in organising a preparedness session for alcoholic beverages. These efforts have hopefully facilitated the preparedness process for all spirits producers, large and small – but with the end of the transition period just a few weeks away, the reassurance a suitable trade deal would provide has never been more necessary.
