International Trade News for April 2025
View previous months:
CPTPP: What the UK’s Membership Means for International Trade
The United Kingdom officially became the 12th member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in December 2024, marking its most significant trade agreement since Brexit. This accession allows the UK to benefit from reduced tariffs and streamlined trade with existing member countries: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.
The deal includes the UK’s first-ever free trade agreements with Malaysia and Brunei, and strengthens existing agreements with other CPTPP members by offering more advantageous “rules of origin” provisions. Unlike the EU, the CPTPP does not require regulatory harmonisation, giving the UK greater flexibility while expanding its global trade reach.
Strategically, this move is significant — UK trade with CPTPP countries grew by 10% between 2018 and 2022, and the agreement is expected to deliver a long-term boost of up to £2 billion to the UK economy each year.
Source: TechUK.org, Reuters, Gov.uk
SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH: Australia & New Zealand
Australia and New Zealand are hot spots for UK eCommerce growth, with double-digit growth rates. Strong trade ties, tariff-free agreements and English-speaking consumers make them ideal for British brands.
With over 91% internet usage in both countries, the customer base is ready and waiting.
Explore how GFS supports UK retailers shipping to Australia and New Zealand.
UK-UAE Trade Reaches £23.4 Billion: A Growing Opportunity for British eCommerce
Total trade in goods and services between the UK and the UAE reached £23.4 billion in the four quarters leading up to Q3 2024, marking a 2.0% increase (£454 million) compared to the same period the previous year.
Key Highlights:
• UK Exports to UAE: £14.9 billion, up by 5.1% (£719 million).
• UK Imports from UAE: £8.5 billion, down by 3.0% (£265 million).
• Trade Surplus: £6.5 billion in favour of the UK.
The UAE stands as the UK’s 19th largest trading partner, accounting for 1.4% of total UK trade. Notably, goods exports rose by 3.5% to £8.5 billion.
This growth underscores the UAE’s position as a lucrative market for UK businesses, especially in the fashion, beauty and lifestyle sectors.
The combination of the UAE’s robust economy, a fashion-conscious consumer base, and increasing tourism makes it an attractive destination for British brands seeking international expansion.
Source: Gov.uk fact sheet
UPCOMING INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
We’ve put together a comprehensive list of upcoming public holidays in key international regions. This resource ensures you stay informed so you can resolve any customer queries on parcel timings closer to public holidays in their region.