International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has launched (on Wednesday 26 August) 11 new trade advisory groups (TAGs), as part of a major new business engagement drive designed to support the UK’s ambitious trade negotiations.

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 business 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, Liz Truss 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.

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