Introduction

The European Union's (EU) approach towards the trade deal between the EU and the United Kingdom (UK) has been a subject of much critique. It's important to understand the rationale behind these trade agreements and the impact they have on both parties. This article aims to clarify some misconceptions and provide a balanced view on the benefits of such deals.

The EU-UK Trade Deal: A Misunderstood Agreement

Since the Brexit referendum in 2016, there has been a persistent narrative that the EU is deliberately making life difficult for the UK. This belief often stems from misinformation or misinformation from specific sources.

Source of Misinformation

Many of the narratives propagated about the EU's stance on trade deals are fueled by:

News from tax-dodging billionaire-owned newspapers Views from parties funded by those engaging in tax avoidance Confusion about what the vote for Brexit really meant A lack of critical thinking and analysis Combination of all the above

These sources often present a distorted view to fit their agenda, which is not reflective of the reality of international trade agreements.

The Trade Deal in Context

The current situation has been exacerbated by the challenges posed by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The trade deal negotiations happened in a tumultuous period, with significant limitations in responding due to the pandemic. Additionally, new VAT rules were imposed at the same time, catching many by surprise. These unexpected challenges should be considered when evaluating the trade deal.

The Trade Deal: A Step Forward or Backward?

Some might argue that the trade deal is not advantageous because it makes life difficult. However, this view is misguided. The deal is designed to balance the needs of both parties. Without the trade deal, the situation would likely be even worse.

Consider the implications of no trade agreement. In such a scenario, the UK would face significant import tariffs, making trade more expensive and potentially leading to supply chain disruptions. The trade deal, while not perfect, provides a level of certainty and predictability that is crucial for businesses and consumers alike.

Understanding the Trade Rules

Evaluation of the trade deal requires an understanding of the trading rules involved. The EU has different trading rules with non-EU countries, and these rules are part of the trade agreement between the EU and the UK. The UK decided to prioritize sovereignty over economic integration, which resulted in trading rules similar to those with other neighbors like Belarus or Ukraine.

While these rules may seem restrictive or inconvenient, they are part of the fabric of international trade. The EU's approach to these rules is not idiosyncratic but rather a recognized framework in international trade.

The Role of Frontiers, Documentation, and Border Checks

Significant aspects of the trade deal include increased frontier controls, documentation, and border checks. These are designed to ensure compliance with the trading rules and maintain the integrity of the supply chain. While this may seem burdensome, it is a necessary part of international trade.

Typically, statements like, "It's the bloody EU mate," without an understanding of these rules, can be misleading. If there were no deal, it would be impossible to avoid responsibility for the conditions in the UK. The trade deal allows the UK to take ownership of their own rules and regulations without blaming the EU for "red tape."

Conclusion

Understanding the EU-UK trade deal requires a clear analysis of the context and the benefits it provides. The deal is not designed to make life difficult but rather to ensure the UK's sovereignty while maintaining international trading standards. Recognizing this balance and the challenges of implementation is crucial for all stakeholders involved.