BREXIT COST UK FAMILIES £400 ON GROCERIES, STUDY FINDS

A decade after British voters chose to leave the European Union, research from the London School of Economics suggests trade barriers on food imports have raised grocery costs substantially. According to the researchers, food prices rose by 12% following Britain's departure from the EU. Between 2019 and 2023, the estimated cost rises totalled £400 for the average family. Low-income households reported feeling the impact most acutely, as food accounts for a larger proportion of their spending than it does for wealthier families.

The British government has proposed a new food export agreement with the EU intended to reduce these costs and broaden the range of goods available on supermarket shelves. The deal would eliminate paperwork and physical checks on dairy, fish, cheese, eggs and fresh red meat for EU exporters sending goods to the UK. Officials have indicated the agreement could begin operation in summer 2027.

Beyond grocery bills, other post-Brexit costs have emerged for British households. Pet travel to EU countries has become more expensive and complex. Prior to 2021, a pet passport cost approximately £60, with vaccination and microchipping adding around £50. Pet passports issued to Great Britain residents no longer permit travel to EU member states; they have been replaced by animal health certificates valid for six months and requiring issuance within ten days of EU entry. Holiday-makers have also faced increased costs for mobile phone use in EU countries and new customs requirements for parcels.