UK Considers Joining Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Trade Scheme as EU Extends Offer

The UK government has not ruled out joining the EU-backed trade initiative, but ministers maintain it is not under consideration at this time.

The EU has proposed the UK join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention (PEM), a trade scheme simplifying tariff-free trade across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
The UK government has stated it is not seeking to participate in PEM 'at the present time,' leaving the door open for future consideration.
PEM is not a customs union or an EU-exclusive initiative, but it facilitates smoother trade by harmonizing rules of origin for goods across its 25 member countries.
Critics within the UK argue that joining PEM could lead to regulatory alignment with the EU, complicating trade relations with the US under President Trump’s administration.
Trade experts suggest PEM could benefit UK businesses by easing supply chain integration, though political realities in the UK may hinder progress.