UK presents food strategy with impact on EU trade

The UK government recently presented a food strategy for England, focusing on health, sustainability and economic growth. The tone is notably patriotic. The food system is expected to become not only more nutritious and sustainable, but also contribute to national pride and economic resilience.

New direction, familiar challenges

According to the strategy, the British food chain has been steered for too long by outdated incentives. The government believes the time has come for structural change. There is a clear ambition to build “a healthier, more affordable, more sustainable and more resilient” food system. While the current system is recognised for achievements such as food safety, variety and convenience, the strategy also highlights issues like obesity, food insecurity and environmental strain.

The plan was developed with input from over 400 stakeholders across the food chain, from farmers and businesses to consumers. It identifies ten priority outcomes, aimed at reducing poverty, improving access to healthy food and decreasing reliance on food banks.

Implications for international trade

The trade component is particularly relevant for the Netherlands. The UK government stresses the importance of a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement with the EU. This should ease export and import flows and lower costs for producers and retailers. The UK explicitly names the EU as its largest agri-food trade partner and aims to strengthen this relationship.

The strategy acknowledges that the British food system is part of a complex international network. Decisions made by other countries—including EU member states—directly affect British supply chains. And the reverse also holds true.

Regional dynamics and food culture

While the plans focus on England, they are aligned with strategies in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. At the same time, the strategy emphasises that the food system consists of smaller regional systems, often deeply rooted in local cultures and economies. That diversity is something the government wants to make use of. “Food is often at the heart of communities,” the document states. Local experience and engagement are seen as essential to achieving lasting change.

The UK government recently presented a food strategy for England, focusing on health, sustainability and economic growth. The tone is notably patriotic. The food system is expected to become not only more nutritious and sustainable, but also contribute to national pride and economic resilience.

Gov.uk