The announcement of an Australia-UK free trade agreement has been welcomed by Seafood Industry Australia as the industry works to diversify its markets.
‘This announcement marks a period of renewed growth and opportunity for the Australian seafood industry, and we look forward to building strong and vibrant relationships with our UK customers,’ said SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta.
‘Prime ministers Scott Morrison and Boris Johnson signed an ‘in-principle’ trade deal between Australia and the United Kingdom. This landmark deal will guarantee tariff-free, quota-free access to the UK market for Australian seafood products. As an industry we have been working hard over the past two years to diversify our markets to ensure we have a resilient export strategy. This announcement provides a significant leap forward in market access which is welcomed by the industry,’ she commented.
‘Importantly, there will be an elimination of tariffs on entry into force (EIF) including those on all fin-fish and, the 12% tariff on fresh and frozen rock lobster. The remaining tariffs will be eliminated over three years. Australian seafood producers will now have access to more than 65 million UK consumers who value our safe, sustainably produced Australian seafood. While UK consumers will have access to some of the greatest seafood in the world.’
Veronica Papacosta stated that Australia is a world leader in sustainable fisheries management and for the eighth consecutive year Commonwealth-managed fisheries have been given the tick of sustainability. ‘This is something our commercial fishers are very proud of, and is unprecedented internationally. Coupled with our aquaculture sector who provide fresh, high-quality seafood, year-round – Australian seafood is one of the best managed, healthiest and most sustainable protein sources in the world,’ she said.
‘We applaud Trade Minister Dan Tehan and our negotiation team on an improved set of market access outcomes. The UK deal will create new and needed opportunities for Australia’s seafood producers in a high-value market.’
