UK poised for trade deal with Australia
BRITAIN and Australia are set to agree a historic multi-billion pound Brexit trade deal before Christmas – and it will give new opportunities for young people to work Down Under.
International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said that “significant progress” has been made to push the deal over the line.
After meeting in London, her Australian counterpart Dan Tehan said: “We are almost there. Would make a great Christmas present for both nations.”
Hopes of an imminent Free Trade Agreement with Australia bolsters the burgeoning relationship between the two nations.
Ms Trevelyan added: “We want UK businesses to trade freely – boosting our exports and setting new global standards.”
Trade with Australia was worth almost £14billion last year and is set to increase following the implementation of the new arrangement.
British cars, Scotch whisky and confectionery will all receive a boost from the pact, with it being cheaper to export to the world’s sixth biggest nation. Under the agreement, Britons under the age of 35 will be able to travel and work in Australia more freely.
It comes as the UK’s new trade deal with Norway took effect yesterday promising a £22billion lift for the economy.
The deal will help elevate the UK fish industry with exporters able to benefit from zero-tariffs on their products. Norwegians can now also enjoy British produce, from West Country Farmhouse Cheddar to Cumberland sausages and Cambridge Favourite strawberries thanks to lower levies on goods sent over.
It will also slash red tape for exporters, saving businesses both time and money while UK workers will be able to ply their trade in Norway and those looking to relocate will be able to do so under new rules. Ms Trevelyan said: “Our ambitious deal with Norway, which comes into effect today, shows exactly what the UK can achieve as an independent, sovereign deal-making nation.
“Trade with our Norwegian neighbours was worth £20.1billion in 2020. We expect this to grow under the new deal, supporting key sectors and creating jobs across the UK.
“This deal with Norway is just one of many reasons to be optimistic, and I’m look ahead to 2022 being a fivestar year of UK trade.
“It will kick off deals with some of the world’s biggest economies and helping British businesses sell their fine products to the world.”
‘We want our businesses to boost exports’