Business, Freight News, Logistics


Logistics UK calls for speedy SPS deal to boost Ulster business

[ February 27, 2026   //   ]

Logistics UK called for swift introduction of a deal between the UK and EU on movement of SPS food and agri products when it met Northern Ireland Secretary of State Hilary Benn.

The Northern Ireland Business Stakeholder Group meeting in Belfast on 25 February also discussed how the Windsor Framework could be optimised, as well as the risk of increased trade costs across the Irish Sea, if the maritime aspect of the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) comes into scope for Northern Ireland.

Logistics UK’s deputy director for public affairs Ben Garratt, said: “The Windsor Framework is certainly an improvement on the Northern Ireland Protocol, but challenges remain, such as data checks, labelling requirements and a lack of guidance for hauliers, and logistics businesses now also face the risk of increased shipping costs due to the UK ETS. Together, these challenges risk deterring GB suppliers from the Northern Ireland market, as they could lead to added costs, discouraging investment, and ultimately increasing prices for consumers.

“The meeting provided a great opportunity for our sector to make the case for a speedy introduction of an SPS agreement with the EU as well as to raise its concerns about the current trading situation in NI,” Garratt added. “It was encouraging to see how receptive the Secretary of State was to the suggestions from industry on how trading relationships could be improved. 

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