The mounting coronavirus crisis in Europe is leading to a debate about whether open borders, a hallmark of the European Union, should remain open – and the consequences of shutting them.
More than a dozen EU countries have imposed restrictions, or even closed their borders entirely, in attempts to prevent COVID-19 from spreading. As a result, the flow of goods – including food – has been disrupted, exacerbating shortages in food stores.
Trade associations that represent different parts of the European food chain signed a statement alleging that delays and disruptions at national borders have interrupted the flow of food supplies, packaging and even workers.
The trade association coalition called for the establishment of fast-track lanes at borders to allow faster passage of supplies necessary to the food industry.
With the outbreak in Asia reportedly under control, Europe is becoming the center of the pandemic. Italy passed China this week in the number of COVID-19-related deaths.
