trade

UK Looks to Establish ‘Closer, More Mature’ Trade Relations with EU

New Business Secretary to Announce UK's Global Re-emergence at G7 Meeting

The United Kingdom is initiating steps to enhance its trade relations with the European Union during discussions between the newly appointed Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, and international peers in Italy.

On his inaugural overseas visit since Labour’s significant electoral victory, Reynolds will address a G7 meeting of trade ministers in Reggio Calabria, Italy, emphasizing the UK's intent to cultivate a “closer, more mature relationship with our friends in the EU.”

EU Secures US Market Access for Certain Plants

Producers from 21 EU Member States will soon gain access to the US market for certain plants, following successful negotiations by the European Commission to remove US import restrictions.

On June 12, 2024, after years of discussions, the US issued its final Notice recognizing 21 EU Member States as 'country free' from two plant pests: the Asian long-horned beetle (ALB) and the Citrus long-horned beetle (CLB). This achievement results from extensive engagement with the US, including efforts by Commission Executive Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis to lift these trade barriers.