UK Business Secretary Calls on EU to Remove Trade Barriers Hindering Growth
Minister urges Brussels to reduce post-Brexit friction as talks continue over improving economic cooperation
The UK’s business secretary has urged the European Union to stop “putting up barriers” to trade, arguing that closer economic cooperation would benefit both sides as Britain seeks to strengthen growth and investment.
Speaking during meetings with European counterparts and business leaders, the cabinet minister said that while the UK and EU share deep commercial ties, persistent regulatory friction and administrative checks are adding unnecessary costs for exporters.
He called for a more pragmatic approach that would reduce duplication, streamline customs procedures and support small and medium-sized enterprises operating across borders.
The remarks come as London and Brussels continue discussions aimed at refining elements of the post-Brexit trade framework.
Businesses in sectors ranging from food and agriculture to manufacturing and professional services have reported ongoing challenges linked to certification requirements, border paperwork and diverging standards.
The business secretary stressed that the UK remains committed to high regulatory standards and constructive engagement with the EU, but said both sides must demonstrate flexibility if trade volumes are to expand.
He highlighted the importance of minimising disruption for companies that rely on integrated supply chains spanning the Channel.
Officials indicated that the government is pursuing sector-specific agreements and technical understandings that could ease burdens without reopening the core trade treaty.
Among the areas under discussion are sanitary and phytosanitary checks on agri-food exports and mutual recognition arrangements in certain professional fields.
The appeal reflects broader efforts by the UK government to accelerate economic growth amid global uncertainty and competitive pressures.
While acknowledging political sensitivities around Brexit, the minister emphasised that practical cooperation with European partners is essential to unlocking investment, improving productivity and supporting jobs on both sides of the Channel.
EU representatives have previously said that access to the bloc’s single market depends on adherence to its regulatory framework, underscoring the balance between sovereignty and market integration that continues to shape the post-Brexit relationship.
Speaking during meetings with European counterparts and business leaders, the cabinet minister said that while the UK and EU share deep commercial ties, persistent regulatory friction and administrative checks are adding unnecessary costs for exporters.
He called for a more pragmatic approach that would reduce duplication, streamline customs procedures and support small and medium-sized enterprises operating across borders.
The remarks come as London and Brussels continue discussions aimed at refining elements of the post-Brexit trade framework.
Businesses in sectors ranging from food and agriculture to manufacturing and professional services have reported ongoing challenges linked to certification requirements, border paperwork and diverging standards.
The business secretary stressed that the UK remains committed to high regulatory standards and constructive engagement with the EU, but said both sides must demonstrate flexibility if trade volumes are to expand.
He highlighted the importance of minimising disruption for companies that rely on integrated supply chains spanning the Channel.
Officials indicated that the government is pursuing sector-specific agreements and technical understandings that could ease burdens without reopening the core trade treaty.
Among the areas under discussion are sanitary and phytosanitary checks on agri-food exports and mutual recognition arrangements in certain professional fields.
The appeal reflects broader efforts by the UK government to accelerate economic growth amid global uncertainty and competitive pressures.
While acknowledging political sensitivities around Brexit, the minister emphasised that practical cooperation with European partners is essential to unlocking investment, improving productivity and supporting jobs on both sides of the Channel.
EU representatives have previously said that access to the bloc’s single market depends on adherence to its regulatory framework, underscoring the balance between sovereignty and market integration that continues to shape the post-Brexit relationship.
