Updates on recent International Trade Discussions
Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Update on Continuous Negotiations
Statement made on 18 December 2024 by The Rt Hon Mr Douglas Alexander, Minister of State for Trade 
Policy & Economic Security.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade announced the government’s intention to deliver the UK’s FTA negotiations programme in July. Negotiations with the GCC resumed on 24 September. Since then, the UK has held ongoing virtual and in person negotiations. This included a GCC delegation visiting London during the week of 21 October and a UK delegation visiting Riyadh during the week of 11 November.
Read more HERE
UK sports exporters set for happy New Year thanks to soaring demand in the Gulf
UK sports industry companies are seeing a boom in demand from the Gulf, as the 
UK progresses its trade deal negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council.
- UK companies see soaring demand for sports services in the Gulf.
- Increased sales come as gyms and fitness clubs prepare for New Year rush.
- News comes as UK in talks with the Gulf to secure a trade deal.
Read more HERE
New protections for British food and drink in Japan
UK secures special protected status as geographical indications for a 
further 39 British food and drink products in Japan.
Japan’s population of 124 million has a strong appetite for international food and drink and the country’s status as the world’s fourth largest economy in 2023 highlights the strength of its consumer market and the commercial opportunities for premium British products.
Read more HERE
UK government advances growth mission overseas by strengthening links with leading European businesses
Minister Stephen Doughty travels to Madrid and Lisbon to meet with counterparts and senior 
representatives from top European businesses.
- Minister Stephen Doughty to visit Spain and Portugal to reset relationships and advance opportunities for investment and growth with European partners
- trip to Madrid and Lisbon includes talks with world-leading companies Iberdrola and Avincis to explore further opportunities to deliver UK jobs and growth
- demonstrates how government is leveraging international engagement to deliver its Plan for Change and make Britain better off
Joint Statement on UK-Malaysia Joint Economic and Trade Committee
A Joint Statement between the United Kingdom and Malaysia concluding the 
first Joint Economic and Trade Committee meeting. The first UK-Malaysia JETCO is a clear signal of the deepening of an already strong trade relationship between the UK and Malaysia supported by membership of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
Read more HERE