Trade Agreements: Your Secret to Going Global

Expanding overseas is now easier than ever — but are you making the most of free trade agreements (FTAs)?

What Is a Trade Agreement?

Trade agreements are deals between countries that make buying and selling goods and services easier. They can reduce tariffs, open markets, protect your intellectual property, and create better investment opportunities. In short: FTAs help lower your costs, reduce barriers, and protect your interests abroad.

How Many Trade Agreements Does the UK Have?

The UK has signed over 70 trade agreements, most of which are already in effect.
New and updated agreements are being negotiated with major partners like India, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Switzerland, South Korea, Turkey, and Israel. The UK has also joined the CPTPP trade bloc, opening up new access to markets like Malaysia (worth £330 billion in 2022).

How Can Trade Agreements Benefit My Business?

Trade agreements can offer:

• Lower tariffs and reduced costs

• Easier market access for your products and services

• Stronger legal protections for your data and intellectual property

• Better investment opportunities abroad

Some benefits apply automatically, but others require action. For example:

• Proving the origin of your goods

• Adjusting your contracts to comply with local market requirements

• Registering your intellectual property in a partner country

The exact actions depend on what you’re trading and where you’re doing business.