Secretary of State for International Trade (): The first round
of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the
United Kingdom (UK) and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) took place
between 22 August and 29 September. The negotiations were
conducted virtually.
In this round of negotiations the UK and GCC discussed their
objectives for the FTA, and exchanged technical information.
Technical discussions were held across 29 policy areas over 33
sessions. In total, more than 100 UK negotiators from across
Government took part in this round of negotiations.
An FTA will be a substantial economic opportunity, and a
significant moment in the UK - GCC relationship. Government
analysis shows that, in the long-run, a deal with the GCC is
expected to increase trade by at least 16%, add at least £1.6
billion a year to the UK economy and contribute an additional
£600 million or more to UK workers’ annual wages.
Both sides have committed to secure an ambitious, comprehensive
and modern agreement fit for the 21st century.
The Government remains clear that any deal will be in the best
interests of the British people and the UK economy. We will not
compromise on our high environmental and labour protections,
public health, animal welfare and food standards, and we will
maintain our right to regulate in the public interest. We are
also clear that during these negotiations, the NHS and the
services it provides is not on the table.
The Government will keep Parliament updated as these negotiations
progress.
