Brexit Border Controls Set to Impact Polish Meat Trade and Supply Chain Economics

Fresh concerns have emerged regarding Britain’s implementation of post-Brexit border controls, with Polish meat exporters particularly affected by the new regime taking effect from 30 April. The shift marks a significant change in trade relations, as meat has surpassed automotive parts to become Poland’s primary export to Britain, valued at £1.2 billion and representing 8.6 per cent of all British imports from Poland.

The British-Polish Chamber of Commerce reports that major UK supermarket chains, including Tesco and Sainsbury’s, heavily rely on Polish meat imports. This dependency grew after Brexit when British slaughterhouses struggled with labour shortages, leading retailers to seek competitive alternatives from Polish producers.

The new border inspection regime introduces fees ranging from £29 to £145 per consignment, creating significant challenges for logistics companies. Piotr Liczycki, managing director of Eljot International Transport, estimates his company will face government payments between £1 million and £1.5 million, costs likely to be passed onto consumers.

Time-sensitive deliveries face particular risks under the new system. Fresh poultry shipments to London’s Smithfield Market operate within strict delivery windows, and delays at border inspection points could render entire shipments worthless. The uncertainty has led some smaller Polish exporters to consider abandoning the British market entirely.

Trade experts criticise the last-minute nature of the regulatory changes. Agnieszka Kisielewska, a partner at Warsaw-based MDDP, highlights communication failures in disseminating crucial information to small and medium-sized enterprises. The British government’s repeated delays in implementing these controls – postponed five times since Brexit – has created additional uncertainty in the market.

The situation presents both challenges and opportunities. While some European exporters may withdraw from the British market due to increased bureaucracy, Polish companies, with their historical experience navigating complex customs procedures, might find new opportunities to expand their market share in the UK. The success of these adaptations will likely influence the 2025 review of the Brexit Trade and Cooperation agreement, scheduled during Poland’s EU presidency.