Proposed UK-EU Trade Deal to Impact Blueberry Imports
A pending sanitary and phytosanitary agreement could add costs for Moroccan blueberry exporters by mid-2027.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Organic Food
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New trade negotiations between the United Kingdom and the European Union threaten to increase expenses for fresh produce suppliers by mid-2027. The proposed sanitary and phytosanitary agreement may introduce mandatory inspections and certifications for non-EU imports.
Why it matters
The deal aims to streamline post-Brexit food trade between London and Brussels, but could inadvertently burden the supply chain with significant new compliance fees. Industry groups are currently seeking exemptions to protect trade volume from third-party nations.
Morocco exported 19,000 tonnes of blueberries to the UK between July 2024 and June 2025, marking a 44% volume increase. The UK imported 82,630 tonnes of total blueberries in 2025, with Morocco accounting for 75% of those imports in April.
The players
Fresh Produce Consortium
This trade organization represents the interests of companies involved in the fresh produce industry and is currently seeking exemptions for non-EU imports.
The details
New alignment with European Union rules could require additional certification and inspections for all third-country products entering the UK. The Fresh Produce Consortium is currently lobbying for a permanent exemption to avoid the estimated £300 million in annual costs.
Timeline
July 2024 to June 2025: Morocco exported 19,000 tonnes of blueberries to the UK.
2025: Total UK blueberry imports reached 82,630 tonnes.
April 2025: Morocco supplied 75% of UK blueberry imports.
mid-2027: The UK-EU sanitary and phytosanitary agreement may take effect.
Culture Shift
This development follows the trajectory of the post-Brexit UK-EU sanitary and phytosanitary agreement as it seeks to redefine food safety regulations. It reflects a shift toward tighter regulatory control that impacts long-standing agricultural trade partnerships.
Consumers may face higher prices at the register if importers pass the new regulatory costs down the supply chain. Shoppers could also experience potential fluctuations in the availability of fresh blueberries during peak import seasons.
The takeaway
Supply chain shifts of this magnitude underscore the complexity of international food trade following regulatory transitions. Consumers should monitor for price changes as importers adjust their operations to meet new certification standards.
Further reading
For more context on international supply chain standards, visit the Organic Food section.
Live Poll
Should the government prioritize trade alignment over keeping fresh produce prices low for consumers?
