EU/UK Trade Deal

This UK/EU trade deal looks good to okay subject to the small print. The EU was great when it was just a trade union, instead of a recreation of sprawling emergent Federal political union with too much power.

Detail

The UK and EU announced a new post-Brexit trade and cooperation deal on May 19, 2025, aimed at resetting their relationship. Here are the key details based on available information:

Trade and Economic Impact: The agreement is projected to add nearly £9 billion ($12 billion) to the UK economy by 2040. It focuses on reducing trade barriers, particularly for agricultural goods, by removing checks on products like meat and dairy through "timely dynamic alignment" with EU rules and standards. The UK will contribute to formulating these rules but has no veto power.

Fishing Rights: The deal extends EU boats' access to UK waters until 2038, a 12-year extension from the previous 5-year arrangement, seen as a concession by the UK to secure veterinary goods trade benefits.

Defense and Security: A new security and defense partnership allows UK firms access to the EU’s €150 billion ($167 billion) defense budget, fostering military and industrial cooperation.

Food Standards and Costs: The deal eliminates red tape on agrifood exports, expected to lower food prices in the UK. It also links the UK and EU emissions quotas, potentially benefiting British industries.

Youth Mobility and Other Talks: The UK secured ongoing discussions on youth mobility, including potential Erasmus program involvement, though no firm commitments were made.

Additional Provisions: The agreement includes measures like eGates, pet passports, and protections for British steel, aiming to streamline border processes and enhance trade.

The deal is described as a “huge vote of confidence” in the UK, with both sides hailing it as a new chapter in post-Brexit relations. Discussions on specific commitments will continue.