As trade talks with Japan, the US, Australia and New
Zealand intensify, the Trade Secretary is stepping up
engagement with key industries across Britain,
including farming, manufacturing and automotive.
Their advice will be used to help inform the
government’s negotiating position and deliver key
industry asks that benefit the whole UK, including
securing new market access on products like ceramics,
cars, steel and beef, and agreeing cutting-edge digital
trade rules.
The new groups are comprised of the best and brightest
businesses people from all parts of Britain, from
whisky distillers in Scotland to car manufacturers in
the Midlands, as part of DIT’s efforts to ensure trade
deals benefit all regions and devolved administrations.
Secretary of State for International Trade, said:
This is about bringing business closer to the
negotiating table and using their expertise to help
secure the best possible deals that deliver jobs and
growth across Britain. Talks with Japan, the US,
Australia and New Zealand are entering their crucial
latter stages, so it is only right that we step up
engagement with vital industries to utilise their
technical and strategic expertise.
I want business in Britain to feel engaged and
informed about the work we’re doing to build an
independent trade policy and how it impacts them. As
we recover from Coronavirus we want to strike deals
that benefit every part of the country so we can
build back better and deliver a fairer country for
all.
Adam Couch, Chief Executive, Cranswick said:
I am delighted to be able to work with the Department
for International Trade on the development of the
Agri-Food Trade Advisory Group.
There are so many opportunities that we can explore
as part of the programme to ensure the UK remains at
the forefront of global agricultural standards to
maintain our competitive position as we seek to
negotiate future trade agreements.
Miles Celic, Chief Executive Officer, TheCityUK, said:
The UK has a great opportunity to pursue a new
generation of ambitious and innovative trade
agreements.
For financial and related professional services, a
focus in those deals on enhancing liberalisation of
trade in services will be key. It would also further
strengthen the UK’s world-leading position as a
global trading hub and premier international
financial centre.
I am very pleased to join two of the new Trade
Advisory Groups – closer consultation with industry
will help develop our national ambitions and
priorities and ultimately best support UK economic
recovery in the aftermath of Covid-19.
Mark Vale, Managing Director, President UK and Ireland
UPS said:
I am delighted to join the Transport Services Trade
Advisory Group.
Britain is a trading nation and has been for many
centuries. This is an ideal opportunity for the
government and businesses to work together to achieve
significant opportunities from international trade.
Geoff Taylor, Chief Executive, BPI said:
The UK’s music industry is a global success story –
we are the second largest music export market in the
world, supporting British artists from all over the
UK to make their way as global stars.
As we establish ourselves an independent trading
nation, the global partnerships we forge in the
coming years will be key to the UK’s future growth.
With the right frameworks in place to enable the UK’s
creative industries to flourish, the opportunities
are absolutely there for the taking. I am delighted
that the BPI is joining this new TAG to help make
that happen.
Emma McClarkin, CEO British Beer & Pub Association
said:
The UK has a unique opportunity to shape its trade
policy and trade relationships globally. Now is the
time to champion British businesses and brands
internationally.
The TAG will allow industry to be part of the new
trade agenda and help pinpoint drivers for success
both domestically and globally.
We have a proud innovative beer heritage here in the
UK. These new relationships will help us build that
reputation, champion the best of British and secure
new opportunities in new markets.
Antony Walker, techUK Deputy CEO, said:
The tech sector in the UK is relentlessly innovative
and resilient. As we chart a new path in the world,
we must champion the UK’s competitive strengths in
the digital economy both at home and abroad.
I am delighted to join the senior group of experts
and work alongside the Government to progress tech
policy objectives, highlight market access concerns
and opportunities, and achieve the best possible
outcomes for tech and telecoms.
Background
Members have been selected to provide a breadth of
knowledge and experience.
List of 11 Trade Advisory Groups:
- Agri-Food
- Automotive, Aerospace and Marine
- British Manufacturing and Consumer Goods
- Investment
- Life Sciences
- Tech and Telecoms
- Chemicals
- Financial Services
- Professional Advisory Services
- Transport Services
- Creative Industries
A list of members can be found on gov.uk