The UK’s trade agreements
2 March 2020
The UK is seeking trade agreements with our major trading partners.
The UK is also seeking to reproduce the effects of existing EU trade agreements for when they no longer apply to the UK. These are called continuity agreements.
Trade agreements set out the rules that cover trade between 2 or more countries. They aim to make trading easier between those countries. They do this by reducing the restrictions on imports and exports between them.
Trade negotiations the UK is prioritising
The UK has left the EU. We are now able to negotiate, sign and ratify new trade agreements. These can come into force after 31 December 2020.
The UK’s priority is to launch negotiations with:
- the EU
- US
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
The government is also continuing its programme of work to reproduce effects of existing EU trade agreements.
The government is also considering joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
Public engagement
The government is engaging with stakeholders to inform the UK’s trade policy and negotiations.
The government has run consultations on potential future trade agreements with the US, Australia, New Zealand and a call for input on a potential agreement with Japan.
It has also consulted on the government’s intention to potentially join the CPTPP.
The government has established the Strategic Trade Advisory Group and a network of Expert Trade Advisory Groups to support the development of our trade policy and negotiations.
Consultation outcome
Closed consultation
Closed consultation
Closed consultation
Trade with the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership?
Closed consultation
Existing UK trade agreements with non-EU countries
Until 31 December 2020, EU agreements can continue to apply to the UK. The UK is seeking to reproduce the effects of existing EU trade agreements for when they no longer apply to the UK.
Agreements that have been signed are expected to take effect from 1 January 2021.
Existing UK trade agreements with non-EU countries
Guidance
Kindly supplied by GOV.UK
Follow Chamber International on Twitter @ChamberInt and on Facebook for the latest in international trade.
