The news comes as the Government revealed its plans in the newly published UK Trade Strategy this week.
The trade policy document recognised the importance of the agri-food and drinks industry and its role in supporting food supply chain security.
“A thriving agriculture sector underpins our food security and supports the prosperity of regional communities across the UK. We will not lower food standards and will uphold high animal welfare standards,” it said.
“We recognise concerns about methods of production, such a sow stalls and battery cages, which are not permitted in the UK.
Unfair advantage
“While methods vary in line with different climates, diseases and other contextual reasons, we will always consider whether overseas produce has an unfair advantage and any impact that may have.
“Where necessary, we will be prepared to use the full range of powers at our disposal to protect our most sensitive sectors including permanent quotas, exclusions and safeguards.”
It comes as the Industrial Strategy was also recently released. The strategy was criticised for failing to support the hospitality sector and small businesses.
The Government highlighted recent trade deals and said it would continue to seek “fair and balanced” deals which include new export opportunities to grow the UK’s world class agri‑food and drinks sector.
More jobs
The new agreements with US, India and EU have been broadly welcomed by industry trade associations.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “What works for business, works for Britain. It means more jobs, more opportunities and more money in people’s pockets.
“That’s why I’ve backed British industry through global headwinds – securing major trade deals with the US, India and the EU that protect jobs and drive growth right across the country.”
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Our Trade Strategy will sharpen our trade defence so we can ensure British businesses are protected from harm, while also relentlessly pursuing every opportunity to sell to more markets under better terms than before.”
