UK’s first post-Brexit trade deals come into force

The UK’s trade deals with Australia and New Zealand came into force at midnight on May 31, with special shipments of British goods such as signed Beano comics among the first to be sent under the new arrangements.

The agreements are the first trade deals negotiated post-Brexit to enter into force and come after the UK, Australia and New Zealand completed their domestic ratification processes, The Independent reports.

Under the deals’ terms, from May 30 tariffs on all UK goods exports to Australia and New Zealand will be removed, access to these markets for services unlocked and red tape slashed for digital trade and work visas.

Business and trade secretary Kemi Badenoch said: “Today is a historic moment as our first trade deals to be negotiated post-Brexit come into effect.

“Businesses up and down the country will now be able to reap the rewards of our status as an independent trading nation and seize new opportunities, driving economic growth, innovation and higher wages.”

To mark the occasion, international trade minister Nigel Huddleston will tour DHL’s Southern Distribution Centre near Heathrow to see off two handpicked consignments of UK goods.

British goods from across the country including Beano comics signed by the comic’s editor John Anderson, Penderyn single malt Welsh whisky, Brighton Gin, The Cambridge Satchel Company bags and Fever-Tree mixers are among the items being sent from the Government to the Australian and New Zealand trade ministers.

The parcels will also include an England cricket top signed by James Anderson and Emma Lamb, a Wales rugby shirt signed by the men’s team and a tennis racket from Gray’s of Cambridge.

Ministers say that alongside the new trade deals, young Brits will also benefit from opportunities in Australia thanks to the expansion of the shared Youth Mobility and Working Holiday Maker visa schemes.

On 1 July 2023, the age limit for UK applicants going to Australia will go from 30 to 35 years old, and from 1 July 2024, Brits will be able to stay in Australia for up to three years without having to meet specified work requirements