Speaking at the GibLink investors’ forum in London, Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and former Chief Minister Sir Peter Caruana urged businesses on both sides of the Gibraltar-Campo de Gibraltar frontier to seize the mobility dividends of the new UK-EU treaty. The agreement, ratified earlier this year, removes the physical border fence and places Gibraltar under Schengen rules administered by Spanish border officers, allowing people and goods to circulate far more freely between Spain and the Rock. Picardo argued that the ‘psychological liberation’ of seeing the fence come down opens “an opportunity for growth like never before”, but stressed Gibraltar would prioritise high-value, well-regulated investment rather than a numbers game. Sir Peter added that shared prosperity is essential for the treaty’s longevity: "Success will be judged by tangible benefits for La Línea and the wider Campo as much as for Gibraltar." Cross-border employment has already doubled to 15,500 workers, and both leaders foresee new hotel, logistics and fintech projects on the Spanish side that will feed Gibraltar’s economy. For Spanish municipalities struggling with unemployment, easier frontier transit could attract commuting talent and cross-border shoppers. Businesses should nevertheless prepare for selective licensing and closer regulatory scrutiny, as Gibraltar seeks to protect its reputation while deepening EU market access. The audience of London-based investors welcomed the message but asked for clarity on aviation links: Picardo confirmed that Schengen membership will facilitate new European routes, although Gibraltar Airport will not be developed as a hub. Full implementation of the treaty’s border regime is expected by early 2027, subject to Spanish general-election uncertainties.
Source: Gibraltar Chronicle
