Unlocking Potential: How Northern Ireland Becomes a Trade Powerhouse Post-Brexit

Northern Ireland is poised to become a key trade hub under a new agreement between the UK government and the European Union. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized this during a reception for Northern Irish businesses in Westminster. The deal, announced recently, aims to ***reduce post-Brexit checks*** on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, specifically regarding agri-food products. This initiative is part of efforts to avoid a hard border with the Republic of Ireland, established when the UK left the EU—resulting in significant checks and excess paperwork known as the ’Irish Sea border.’

Reynolds highlighted that this agreement will mean ***fewer checks and less red tape***. By aligning UK regulations with EU rules on agri-food, there will be no physical checks on food products from Great Britain arriving in Northern Ireland. Despite the easing of checks, customs declarations will continue to be necessary.

This arrangement solidifies Northern Ireland’s role as a ’unique gateway’ for trading goods across the EU and the rest of the UK. Reynolds stressed the importance of this position and the government’s responsibility to help businesses capitalize on it. Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, echoed this sentiment by aiming to maximize opportunities through dual market access, albeit noting that details of the agreement are crucial.

Concerns regarding trade with Great Britain were also raised by Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, who indicated more work is needed to streamline the trade process, particularly on issues like customs and veterinary medicines. The reception, organized by Trade NI, served as a crucial forum for businesses to relay their challenges and foster dialogue with national political leaders.

Retail NI’s Glyn Roberts pointed out the adverse effects of recent National Insurance increases on the dense network of small businesses in the region, emphasizing a significant challenge for policymakers to address the rising cost of doing business in Northern Ireland.