Gibraltar has officially entered a new phase following the removal of border controls between itself and Spain, facilitated by an agreement involving the UK, Spain, and the EU. This long-awaited development is set to alleviate the years of delays experienced at the border, which affected approximately 16,000 individuals crossing daily, with many being Spanish workers. In the past, border wait times could extend for hours.
John Isola, the President of the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce, remarked, "Not reaching an agreement would have been a catastrophe. The irony is that it was forced by Brexit."
With the new arrangement in place, passport checks will no longer be required at the border. Instead, Spain will conduct necessary inspections at both the airport and the port of Gibraltar on behalf of the EU.
This agreement is expected to bolster Gibraltar's economy, particularly its online gambling sector, which holds 54 licenses, provides around 3,300 jobs, and contributes nearly 30% to the territory's GDP.
Historically significant, this deal marks a turning point for Gibraltar, which experienced border closures in 1969 and 1985 under General Franco. While some issues remain unresolved, the accord is broadly viewed as a vital step toward enhancing mobility, strengthening economic ties, and transforming the relationship between Gibraltar and Spain in the post-Brexit era.
