The UK Government has launched a call for input on proposed temporary tariff suspensions aimed at mitigating the impact of rising costs linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Any tariff changes adopted by the UK will also apply to the Island in order to maintain legislative alignment under the Customs and Excise Agreement.
The consultation seeks views on suspending tariffs across three areas: selected agri-food products, fertilisers, and kerosene.
Agri-food
On the 30 April 2026, the UK announced temporary tariff suspensions on a range of food products until 31 December 2028, which will be implemented in a few weeks’ time. They are now consulting on a further list to help reduce food prices, with estimated consumer benefits expected to exceed £150 million per year.
Fertilisers
A one-year temporary suspension of tariffs on certain fertilisers is under consideration to ease import costs, excluding urea ammonium nitrate (UAN).
Kerosene
The UK is also considering suspending tariffs on kerosene in response to rising energy costs affecting heating and aviation fuel.
Consultation process
The call for input is open until 11:59pm on 24 June 2026. Stakeholders are invited to submit views on the proposed product lists, including suggestions for additional goods that could support efforts to reduce the cost of living.
Responses will inform the UK Government’s decisions on the scope of any tariff suspensions, with any resulting tariff changes applying to the Island, to ensure continued alignment under the Customs and Excise Agreement.
