The agreement, finalised just weeks ahead of a major Scottish business trade mission to Spain, aims to simplify customs procedures and align standards—key demands from business groups since the post-Brexit transition.
The Scottish Chambers of Commerce has welcomed a fresh UK-EU trade agreement, hailing it as a significant breakthrough for Scottish exporters and a vital step towards strengthening cross-border commercial ties.
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, described the new deal as a “welcome and pragmatic step” that would ease long-standing trade challenges between Britain and its largest economic neighbour.
“The EU remains Scotland’s top export destination, and this deal will help reduce costs, cut red tape, and make it easier for Scottish businesses to compete and grow across European markets,” Cameron said in a statement.
The agreement, finalised just weeks ahead of a major Scottish business trade mission to Spain, aims to simplify customs procedures and align standards—key demands from business groups since the post-Brexit transition. Scotland’s export-driven sectors, including food and drink, manufacturing, and tech, are expected to benefit from fewer administrative hurdles and clearer regulatory frameworks.
Dr Cameron noted that the agreement dovetails with the Chamber’s upcoming trade delegation to Spain, led in partnership with the UK Government and the Scotland Office. Spain, currently the fastest-growing economy in the EU, is viewed as a high-potential market for Scottish firms seeking new investment opportunities.
“This deal comes at an opportune time,” Cameron added. “Scottish businesses are eager to seize new opportunities, and this progress is a strong foundation for growing international trade.”
While welcoming the breakthrough, the Chambers urged both Westminster and Brussels to build further momentum by addressing labour mobility, particularly the challenges facing skilled migration and youth talent.
“A youth mobility scheme would be a game-changer for attracting high-skilled talent and supporting our global ambitions,” Cameron said.
The new agreement has been broadly interpreted by analysts as a sign of improving relations between the UK and the EU after years of post-Brexit friction. Businesses across Scotland are hopeful the deal marks a turning point, offering renewed clarity and confidence for future growth.
