Beware the Cheese Tariff: A Cheesemaker's Caution for Trade Deals

Giles Barber, one of Britain’s largest cheesemakers, has raised alarms about the current trade negotiations with the US, urging the government to proceed with caution. Barber, whose family has been in the cheese business in Ditcheat, Somerset, since 1833, holds the title of the UK’s largest exporter of cheese to America, facing new challenges due to a 10% tariff on imports.

In a direct appeal to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Barber emphasized the importance of thoroughness over haste in forging the trade deal. He stressed that the standards upheld in UK farming, particularly regarding animal welfare and environmental protection, must not be compromised. Concerns are prevalent among farmers that American agricultural practices could undermine British regulations, notably those prohibiting hormone injections in livestock.

Not only Barber but various farming unions caution against the potential dangers of an urgent trade agreement, highlighting public concern over the introduction of substandard food products into the UK market. They firmly oppose allowing hormone-treated beef or treated chicken that do not align with traditional British values.

Despite the UK government’s commitment to maintaining its high food standards, doubts linger among producers like Barber, who recall past incidents such as the price impacts faced due to the 2019 EU-US trade dispute. Although Barber expects a short-term dip in demand, he remains hopeful for normalization over time.

In contrast, a survey by the British Chambers of Commerce revealed a pessimistic outlook among firms exporting to the US, with 62% anticipating negative repercussions post-trade deal. However, some businesses see potential opportunities amid this turbulence. For instance, Laura Ward, who created a luxury tennis clothing brand, noted a potential advantage over competitors who manufacture in higher-tariff regions like China.

Ultimately, as discussions about a trade deal continue, the British cheese industry and broader agricultural sectors hold their breath, advocating for protections that respect UK standards while navigating a changing economic landscape.