‘Brexit buster’ shipping route unveiled

The route, which has been established by maritime and transport specialist, United Seaways, will link Poole in Dorset to Tangier, Morocco. The new roll-on-roll-off ferry service will help bypass post-Brexit traffic congestion and additional import procedures on goods arriving via Europe. It will also significantly reduce emissions compared to current logistic chains by road.

Zeyd Fassi Fehri, MD at United Seaways, said: “Our aim is to support businesses with post-Brexit, supply chain challenges and opportunities. This service will create a sustainable and environmental alternative when launched in the coming months. The speed and efficiency of the vessel ensures a longer shelf life for fresh products whilst reducing road congestion, tolls and additional import procedures that have arisen since Brexit.”

The route will run once per week and cut journey times on Moroccan goods to fewer than three days, compared to more than six days via road.

The route currently includes two ferry crossings – one from Morocco to Spain and one from North Europe to UK – but the new link will avoid the associated bureaucratic Brexit procedures and the time delays the other crossings face. It will also be used to encourage British importers to source fresh produce and other products directly from Morocco and Africa.

Poole Harbour Commissioners works closely with UK Border Control, Port Health, and the Animal & Plant Health Agency to ensure necessary checks are carried out on port premises.

By Rebecca Jeffrey