NI Economy Needs Speedy SPS Deal, Logistics Industry Tells Secretary of State

 (Copyright text and images, Logistics UK reproduced with kind permission)

If Northern Ireland's economy is to achieve its full growth potential over the coming years, business group Logistics UK is clear that trade friction must be reduced through the introduction of a swift UK-EU SPS agreement. The call comes after a meeting between Northern Ireland Secretary of State Hilary Benn and representatives of the Northern Ireland Business Stakeholder Group.

During the meeting, held in Belfast on 25 February, industry representatives also discussed with the Northern Ireland Secretary how the Windsor Framework could be optimised for the logistics sector, 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.

"This week's 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," said Ben Garratt, Logistics UK's Deputy Director - Public Affairs. Mr 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. 

"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.

"As a sector, logistics is critical to the future success of NI's economy, with more than 6,000 businesses employing nearly 70,000 people – 8% of the province's entire workforce. The industry stands ready to act as a trusted partner and critical business voice to work with government and drive the economy forwards."

Logistics UK is one of the UK's biggest business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.

With decarbonisation, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, water and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk