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Spain and UK Target January for Gibraltar Fence Demolition as EU Treaty Nears Completion

The deal would reconfigure border management under Schengen-style rules with Spanish policing at the airport.

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Aeropuerto de Gibraltar
Imagen de la verja de Gibraltar, con el Peñón al fondo

Overview

  • The legal text reflecting June's political agreement is described as practically finished in English, with negotiators aiming to close it in October.
  • Officials expect ratification around Christmas, which could allow demolition in early 2026, though Brussels notes possible delays due to procedures.
  • The agreement removes land-border checks on people and goods while instituting dual passenger controls at the port and airport by Spanish and Gibraltarian police, with Spain conducting full airport checks.
  • The pact foresees an EU–Gibraltar customs union and a VAT-like indirect tax regime, including on tobacco, to reduce cross-border distortions.
  • La Línea’s mayor called the reported timeline good news and asked for fresh briefings, as EU officials plan outreach to MEPs ahead of a European Parliament vote.