Port of Dover Statement on UK-EU deal announced on 19 May 2025

DOVER, KENT (ENGLAND) : The Port of Dover welcomes the UK-EU deal announced on Monday, 19 May 2025, which represents a significant and positive step forward in resetting and strengthening our vital cross-Channel economic relationship. As the UK’s primary gateway for trade with the European Union – handling approximately one third of all UK-EU goods trade – Dover is uniquely placed to see the tangible benefits that reduced border frictions will bring, said a release.

We particularly welcome commitments to simplifying trading and travel arrangements and removing barriers such as Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) checks on animal and plant products, which we hope to see implemented as quickly as possible, the release highlighted.

This deal directly reflects the priorities discussed at our recent Short Straits Summit, where leaders across maritime, logistics, infrastructure, government, and business called for frictionless trade, regulatory cooperation, and a shared commitment to innovation and decarbonisation. An improvement in border processes will not only restore confidence for businesses and investors but also drive economic growth and supply chain resilience, and we are pleased to see these objectives recognised in today’s agreement.

Looking ahead, we are committed to working with the UK Government, French Government and European Commission to implement this deal effectively and maximise shared prosperity either side of the Channel. Today’s announcement marks a fresh chapter in UK-EU collaboration, and the Port of Dover stands ready to deliver the full potential of this renewed partnership for the benefit of communities, businesses, and economies on both sides of the Channel, read the release.