Government said that this would be done while protecting domestic producers by offering no new access on pork, poultry and eggs.
The deal will “unlock improved access” for UK dairy exporters, said Government, with tariffs cut by up to 50% on products such as milk powder, building on the sector’s existing tariff-free access for cheese. In return, the UK has made only a very limited offer on certain dairy lines.
British lamb exports will see zero tariffs under Switzerland’s quota system, which Government said would “open the door” to greater opportunities for exporters of lamb, selected beef and dairy products. UK beef steaks will be granted a 35% tariff reduction under the Swiss quota regime.
UK fruit and vegetable growers will have improved access to the Swiss market, with tariffs falling to as low as 0% on a wide range of product, including peas, carrots and broad beans.
The agreement also includes a new SPS chapter to make trade smoother and more predictable, strengthening UK-Swiss cooperation through faster information sharing, reducing red tape at the border and helping resolve trade issues more quickly.
The FTA will allow the UK Government to protect a further 28 UK Geographical Indications in Switzerland, including Traditional Welsh Caerphilly and Ayrshire New Potatoes, helping the UK’s food and drink products thrive in the Swiss market. This is in addition to the 66 GIs currently protected under the existing UK-Switzerland Agriculture Agreement.
“This Government has delivered a deal that gives British farmers and producers a real competitive edge without compromising our high standards.”
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds commented: “Switzerland is already a £195 million market for British food and drink, and this deal will open the door to even more.
“For the first time ever, UK lamb will enter Switzerland tariff-free. Beef, dairy and English sparkling wine will all benefit from lower tariffs too. This Government has delivered a deal that gives British farmers and producers a real competitive edge without compromising our high standards or interests of our farmers.”
NFU president Tom Bradshaw said: “This is a great example of a balanced deal. We appreciate the Government’s efforts to secure competitive access to the Swiss market for UK farmers – something the NFU has called for since the very start of these negotiations.
“The deal will provide exciting opportunities for our beef, lamb, dairy and viticulture sectors, and UK consumers can be reassured that Swiss imports have been produced to high standards.”
