L-R: Tim van Hulle, Annette Kliemann, Miet Poppe, Sylvie Mamias, Mark Jan Terwindt, Jennifer Pheasey and Tim Rozendaal. Credit Leo Cinicolo
During a landmark industry event showcasing horticulture and floriculture, associations gathered to discuss their shared ambition for a UK-EU reset.
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), Union Fleurs, the European Nurserystock Association (ENA) VGB and Royal Anthos assembled at the EU’s embassy in London for Flowers and Plants of Europe.
In a joint call, the group of associations ask for a swift delivery of the EU-UK SPS agreement, involve sector associations to ensure the agreement will be grounded in technical details and introduce urgent pragmatic measures in both the UE and UK until the SPS agreement comes into full force.
Jennifer Pheasey, director of policy and public affairs at the HTA says, “smooth, swift and biosecure supply chains are critical to the competitiveness of UK environmental horticulture.” She adds:
“By working in partnership, collaboratively and constructively, we believe we can unlock much-needed green growth for all those involved in horticultural supply chains, and deliver for UK gardeners, green spaces and support healthier communities.”
Mark Jan Terwindt, chief executive of Royal Anthos, also comments:
“Reaching an agreement is, however, not a finish line, but a starting point to implement the advantages of a low-cost green corridor, with all needed phytosanitary guardrails. This will give the small and intermediate enterprises on both sides of the channel the opportunity to grow into a base for prosperity for the region. With a healthy environment in both the Public and Private landscapes and gardens as a tangible result.”
The associations are working closely to ensure their members can help shape an outcome that supports the future most proactively, as negotiations continue for what is expected to be a key moment in UK-EU discussions in July.