summer countryside morning,Northern Ireland
Policy managers blog by James McCluggage
As talk intensifies about a potential UK – US free trade agreement, the Ulster Farmers’ Union is keeping a close eye on what could be one of the most significant trade decisions since Brexit. Media reports suggest UK ministers are pushing to fast-track a deal to avoid costly US tariffs and to inject momentum into the economy. But speed must not override substance. Our food standards, farming communities and rural economies must not be compromised.
Consequences
We’ve seen the consequences of rushed deals before. The agreements with Australia and New Zealand opened the door to tariff-free beef and lamb from countries with lower production and welfare standards. UK farmers were left competing on an uneven playing field. There is a serious risk we are about to make the same mistake again – only this time, with the United States.
The US-China trade war has left American farmers with surplus product and a strong need to find new markets. In a world where the UK is seeking quick trade wins, there’s a risk we could become a convenient destination. We understand the economic drivers behind this deal. But we must ask-at what cost?
Standards
There are growing concerns that the US is pressuring the UK to weaken its sanitary and phytosanitary rules. This could result in meat entering the market that is produced in ways banned in the UK, such as hormone-treated beef or chlorine-washed chicken. Ministers insist this won’t happen and that UK food standards will be upheld. Yet farmers have heard similar assurances before, only to be left disappointed once deals were signed and done.
Some politicians, including Nigel Farage, claim that concerns are exaggerated. He’s even argued that chlorinated chicken is no different than a bag of pre-washed salad. But such comparisons miss the point. This debate is not just about what goes on our plate. It’s about transparency, traceability and trust. UK consumers have consistently said they want food produced to high standards-and farmers are proud to meet them.
Balance needed
This does not mean we fear trade. Free trade can be positive for farmers, consumers and the environment, but only when it is fair. Any future deal with the US must strike a balance. That means protections for sensitive sectors, realistic adjustment periods and support for farmers facing increased competition. It also means upholding our own production standards rather than exporting problems abroad.
Northern Ireland and GB farmers already export premium agri-food products to the US. There is clear potential to expand these markets. But not by opening the floodgates to low-standard imports that could undercut domestic production and damage our rural economy.
Farmers deserve better
The UFU urges the UK government to remember its pledges. This is not just about trade figures. It’s about values, livelihoods and the future of our farming industry. UK agriculture deserves a deal that recognises our strengths, respects our standards and protects our ability to compete.
Will the government stand by its farmers? The answer will lie in the final terms of this agreement. And we’ll be watching closely.
