Since the UK left the EU, from 1st January 2021, EHCs have been required to export food and other products from GB to the EU, which has led to extra complexity, delays and cost.
What has happened?
On 19th May 2025, the UK and EU jointly announced plans to improve cooperation in areas such as security, defence, emissions, movement of young people etc
One key area was the statement of intention to create a common SPS area (sanitary and phytosanitary).
What does this mean?
While the announcement was light on detail and timescale, the principle means that for the majority of food products of animal origin being shipped from GB to EU, they will no longer require EHCs to be signed by an OV. However, this will mean that the UK is tied to, and committed to follow, all relevant EU laws.
Q and A
When will this start?
We do not currently know, as negotiations are ongoing and will need changes in UK and EU law, plus time to implement. The consensus is it is unlikely until the end of 2025 at the earliest and more likely in 2026
Will any EHCs be needed at all?
We understand EHCs will still be required for higher risk items such as live animals, germplasm and category 1 ABPs
What about the situation now?
For the moment it is very much business as usual and EHCs are still required.
What about Northern Ireland?
We believe that NI will maintain its place in both the UK internal market and in the EU SPS area, therefore EHCs will not be needed to/from NI. However, the Windsor Framework and the red/green lane system, including phase 3 labelling, remains in place for now.
What about exports to the rest of the world?
There should be no change. Whether UIK aligning to the EU’s rules will prevent any further trade details remains to be seen.
Where can I find out more?
Please see this link
Written by Andrew Iveson on and tagged in deal, EU, GB, trade, .