Farmers retaining control of the single market after leaving the European Union is vital for food supply, NFU county chairman Richard Yates has said.
Mr Yates said the UK was only 61% self-sufficient.
"I think there is a feeling of shock in Brussels of the Brexit result," he told the Shropshire Star.
"There is a feeling they are circling their wagons to prevent any further tremors extending throughout Europe and it is possible they might want to make an example of us.
"It would be beneficial to agriculture to find a solution so we don't leave the single market."
Key issues
Access to the European market, regulatory burden and an agricultural policy that delivers confidence were the key issues when the industry leaders met in August.
NFU livestock chairman Charles Sercombe said "It was agreed that on trade we need to ensure we continue to have access to the important European market for our beef and lamb.
"It is important that discussions to secure access to new markets around the world continue."
"Like other farming sectors, access to non-UK labour is a key issue.
"We are acutely aware that the meat processing sector is reliant on a secure labour supply, and without it we could see costs rising in the supply chain and which would have a knock on effect on our ability to compete in a world market.
"Regulatory burden remains a thorny issue for many livestock producers.
"We recognise that any significant change could impact on our ability to trade within the single market.
Mr Sercombe said the challenge to government is to ensure regulation is proportionate, and is not 'gold plated' but encourages compliance.
"We want an agricultural policy that helps deliver long term food security, stability and confidence for the livestock sector that reflects geographical and devolved Government differences.
"The UK livestock sector has an opportunity to come up with a template for a productive and profitable sector, this is the start of a new era and we want be part of that discussion."
