Joint Statement: Secretary of State for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom and Minister for Trade and Investment of New Zealand

Officials from both sides have issued a joint statement outlining the latest progress and shared commitments as the New Zealand–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (NZ-UK FTA) advances toward finalisation. The document reflects a collaborative approach to strengthening trade ties, deepening economic cooperation, and supporting growth across diverse sectors.

Key themes highlighted in the statement include:

– Mutual economic opportunity: Ministers emphasise the potential for expanded trade and investment, noting that the agreement will provide greater market access for goods and services, reduce tariff barriers, and streamline regulatory processes. Both countries stress the benefits for businesses, farmers, manufacturers, and innovators as supply chains become more resilient and predictable.

– Economic resilience and growth: The joint remarks underscore the importance of a modern, high-standard agreement that supports inclusive growth. Provisions on digital trade, services, professional qualifications, and sustainability are framed as essential components to future-proof the relationship and to support job creation across a range of industries.

– Regulatory cooperation and alignment: The statement sets out a commitment to ongoing dialogue on technical rules and standards, with a view to reducing compliance burdens while maintaining high-quality protections for consumers and the environment. Enhanced regulatory cooperation is presented as a means to accelerate trade and reduce friction for businesses operating on both sides of the Tasman Sea.

– Sustainable development and trade: Ministers reiterate a shared focus on sustainable development, climate considerations, and ethical governance. The agreement’s framework is described as supporting responsible business practices and the transition to a low-carbon economy, alongside safeguards for workers’ rights and environmental stewardship.

– People-to-people links and mobility: The joint message notes progress on facilitating mobility and skills recognition, recognising that people are central to the success of trade initiatives. Efforts to streamline temporary entry and recognise professional qualifications are highlighted as important enablers for trade in services and collaboration across industries.

– Timetable and next steps: While acknowledging the complexity of negotiations, the ministers outline a clear pathway toward finalisation. The statement emphasises continued engagement with stakeholders, industry voices, and Parliament to ensure the agreement reflects shared priorities and delivers tangible benefits for citizens in both countries.

The joint statement also reaffirms the enduring values that underpin the UK–NZ relationship: openness to trade, commitment to high standards, and a shared interest in a rules-based multilateral system. Both governments express appreciation for the constructive dialogue with business communities, industry groups, and civil society as negotiations proceed.

In conclusion, the ministers reiterate their belief that the NZ-UK Free Trade Agreement represents a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation. By reducing barriers, aligning regulatory regimes where appropriate, and prioritising sustainable and inclusive growth, the agreement is presented as a vehicle to deepen ties between New Zealand and the United Kingdom, supporting jobs, prosperity, and resilience for years to come.

Notes for readers:
– This statement forms part of a broader process of negotiation and consultation. Finalisation is subject to further talks, treaty scrutiny, and parliamentary approval in both jurisdictions.
– Stakeholders are encouraged to engage with official channels for updates, sector-specific guidance, and any transitional arrangements that may accompany the agreement’s implementation.

June 11, 2026 at 05:00PM
英国商务与贸易大臣与新西兰贸易与投资大臣联合声明
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-statement-secretary-of-state-for-business-and-trade-of-the-united-kingdom-and-minister-for-trade-and-investment-of-new-zealand
英国与新西兰部长就新西兰—英国自由贸易协定发表联合声明。

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