Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Canada Trade Policy Update

24 March 2022 · Department for International Trade

Proposed by Anne-Marie Trevelyan Con Berwick-upon-Tweed

Business & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The UK Department for International Trade is launching negotiations for an enhanced Free Trade Agreement with Canada.
  • Negotiations will commence on 24 March 2022 to upgrade the existing UK-Canada Trade Continuity Agreement.
  • The Government will engage stakeholders and maintain high standards during the negotiation process.

Issue summary

The UK Department for International Trade is announcing the launch of negotiations for an enhanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Canada.

Action requested

Negotiations will begin today, 24 March 2022, to upgrade the existing UK-Canada Trade Continuity Agreement. The Government will continue to engage stakeholders and uphold high standards throughout the process.

Key facts

  • The UK-Canada Trade Continuity Agreement was signed on 9 December 2020.
  • Negotiations will launch on 24 March 2022.
  • Canada remained one of the UK's top 20 trading partners, ranked 16th, with total trade worth £19.2 billion in goods and services.
  • UK exports enjoy an estimated £58 million fewer duties under the current agreement.
  • 10,300 SMEs already export to Canada.
  • The UK will pursue areas of mutual interest including women’s economic empowerment, digital trade, innovation, and climate action.
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