25 November 2024: UK-Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein FTA Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures – joint minutes
Published 10 April 2025
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Joint minutes of the second meeting of the Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures under the free trade agreement between the United Kingdom (UK) of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
The second meeting of the Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures under the UK-Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein free trade agreement took place virtually on 25 November 2024.
Participants from the UK, Norway, and Iceland had a fruitful exchange of views on matters related to implementation of the SPS Chapter.
1. Opening remarks
Norway opened the meeting with introductory remarks followed by those from Iceland and the UK.
2. Approval and adoption of the agenda and rules of procedure
All parties approved the agenda.
The parties agreed to continue to follow the rules of procedure for the UK-EEA EFTA Joint Committee mutatis mutandis based on mutual understanding, as was the case for the first SPS subcommittee.
3. Operational conclusions from the previous meeting
Norway provided a brief update on the operational conclusions from the previous subcommittee.
4. Information exchange on animal welfare
The UK provided a presentation on the UK animal welfare regime and its objectives. An exchange of information on animal welfare priorities followed this. Future collaboration and cooperation on animal welfare by all parties was discussed and welcomed.
5. Report on wild caught white fish – risk categories
The UK provided an update on the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) and risk categorisation. It was highlighted that there would be review and repeat analysis of categorisation as needed, as risks may change, and new data becomes available. Generally, it is expected most commodities will remain within their broad categories, but where changes are made, notifications will be provided with sufficient time for establishments and businesses to adapt.
6. E-certification/electronic health certificates
Discussion concerned current status and work by the parties on the future use of e-certification and a brief update from the UK regarding work in the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems (CCFICS).
The parties acknowledged the work and cooperation on e-certification that had taken place.
7. Any change in policy foreseen with the new UK government regarding SPS measures and cooperation with partner countries
Following the UK’s general election, Norway and Iceland were interested to understand any potential change in policy foreseen, particularly with regards to the EU. The UK highlighted that dialogue and the work are in early stages, so the UK was not able to provide detail on any changes.
8. Information about the meeting between Norwegian Minister of Fisheries, Ms Sivertsen Næss, and UK Minister of State, Mr Zeichner, on 9 October 2024
An update was provided on the meeting between the 2 ministers which was held in a friendly atmosphere and a mutual wish to continue the valuable cooperation. SPS issues were at the core of the discussion.
9. Calendar of the SPS Committee
The parties agreed that it is useful to hold meetings on an annual basis. They could look to engage on preparations for the next SPS committee approximately 3 months in advance. The timing of the next meeting would be coordinated via the secretariats from each country.
10. Publication of minutes
Minutes would be produced for approval by all parties. It was agreed that a condensed version of the minutes could be published.
11. Operational conclusions
Norway summarised the discussions during this committee meeting.
12. Any other business
No items raised.
13. Closing remarks
The parties agreed that it is important to meet regularly in this context to discuss matters of cooperation and relevant SPS items between the UK and the EEA EFTA states.
All parties thanked those involved for the collaboration prior to this meeting and organisation of what was a productive meeting.