Update on legislation in scope of UK-EU SPS Agreement

On 9 March 2026, the UK government published the first list of laws where it expects Great Britain to align with the EU, as part of the agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) controls. This agreement should help reduce the costs and administrative burden of import and export controls between the UK and EU, which will no doubt be welcome news to those who trade or wish to trade in the EU market.

The areas where alignment is expected has broad scope, including general food law, food information to consumers, hygiene rules, food additives, food contact materials, and biocidal products. Whilst there is already substantial alignment between Great Britain and the EU in these areas, some divergence has occurred since Brexit.

Negotiations are anticipated to be finalised later this year with the new requirements likely coming into effect by mid-2027. However, food business operators are being encouraged to start considering the impact of these changes now, reviewing their operations and planning any necessary steps to ensure continued compliance once alignment takes effect.

Businesses also have the opportunity to share their views via a Call for Information which will be open until 23 April 2026.

DLA are experienced in working with clients in all parts of the supply chain to understand how to respond to regulatory changes in this space. Please contact the authors or your regular DLA Piper contact for further advice.