British meat producers are warning that continued post-Brexit red tape is choking trade with the European Union, threatening revenue and jobs across the supply chain.
Exporters say health certification, customs documentation and costly inspections have significantly slowed the movement of fresh meat to major European markets. Since leaving the EU single market, consignments of beef, lamb and pork require extensive paperwork and veterinary checks before transportation — increasing costs and delivery times.
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Industry bodies such as the British Meat Processors Association argue that smaller firms are bearing the brunt. Many are struggling to absorb new administrative burdens, with some halting EU trade altogether. According to the association, what once took “hours of preparation now takes days,” adding that the sector faces a “diminished competitive position” against EU producers who face none of these hurdles.
The National Farmers’ Union has also renewed calls for streamlined export procedures and better support from government, highlighting that veterinarians authorised to sign health certificates have become “overstretched and costly.” Meanwhile, European buyers reportedly view British suppliers as “less reliable” due to delays caused by border checks.
While the UK Government insists it is working on digital certification systems to simplify trade, many exporters say reform is needed urgently. Without clearer processes and reduced bureaucracy, Britain risks losing long-established markets for high-quality meat products across Europe.
