The long-awaited treaty that will define Gibraltar’s future relationship with the EU is close to being finalised, with a 250-page draft already in place.
The agreement, inspired by the UK’s Brexit Withdrawal Agreement and modelled on existing EU association frameworks, is set to be divided into seven sections, with mobility of people and movement of goods forming the two central pillars.
Details of the document were shared by Gibraltar’s Attorney General, Michael Llamas, during an informal discussion with Chief Minister Fabian Picardo at a Gibraltar Day event in London.
The treaty will also include dedicated sections on judicial cooperation in criminal matters and dispute resolution.
A range of protocols, annexes and administrative arrangements are being finalised, along with the creation of working groups to address future issues across various sectors.
Picardo described the treaty as ‘a model of what can be achieved when sovereignty is respected.’
A dual control system and customs framework
The political agreement underpinning the treaty was announced on June 11, 2025.
Its stated aim is to secure long-term prosperity for Gibraltar and the surrounding Spanish region of the Campo de Gibraltar by removing physical barriers, checks, and inspections for people and goods crossing the border between La Linea and the Rock.
This would effectively dismantle the existing border fence. In its place, a dual control system will be introduced at Gibraltar’s port and airport.
UK/Gibraltar authorities will continue to carry out their own checks, while Spanish authorities – acting on behalf of the EU – will conduct Schengen controls.
On goods, the treaty lays the foundation for Gibraltar to join a customs union with the EU for the movement of physical products, enabling frictionless trade with Spain.
The agreement also outlines principles for future cooperation on tax harmonisation – particularly on indirect taxes such as tobacco – as well as collaboration in areas such as the rule of law, environmental protection, transport and infrastructure.
According to Picardo, the treaty reflects ‘a diplomacy of principles’ and is the result of ‘years of careful negotiation.’ He said it proves the UK government’s ‘unbreakable commitment’ to the people of Gibraltar.
‘It eliminates the threat of a hard border and guarantees the smooth movement of the thousands who cross daily between Gibraltar and Spain,’ Picardo said.
‘It’s a framework that – equally – secures our future, protects our sovereignty, respects our wishes, and confirms our identity.’
He was emphatic on one key point: ‘Our exclusively British sovereignty remains unchanged, firm and unshakable.’
