LUIS PLANAS REVIEWS THE STABILITY OF UK-SPAIN AGRI-FOOD TRADE AND FISHING

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, met today in Barcelona with the UK Minister of State for Food Safety and Rural Development, Angela Eagle, to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.

In the fisheries sector, both delegations highlighted the positive state of relations between the European Union and the United Kingdom. The extension of negotiations on access to waters provides stability and certainty to the sector, and for the third consecutive year since Brexit, agreements have been reached before the December Fisheries Council meeting, thus avoiding uncertainty. 

The two leaders also agreed on the importance of moving towards multi-year total allowable catches (TACs) for jointly managed species, an approach that will allow for more efficient, predictable and sustainable planning of fishing activity.

In the agri-food sector, the United Kingdom continues to be a strategic partner for Spain, consolidated as the main destination for exports outside the European Union, with a favorable trade balance. 

Finally, in the area of ​​New Genomic Techniques (NGT), the UK delegation expressed interest in strengthening collaboration with Spain in this field. Minister Luis Planas emphasized the importance of NGT for ensuring food security and as a key tool for farmers and livestock breeders, enabling them to develop plants and seeds that are better adapted to the effects of climate change and more resilient.