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Written question asked by James McMurdock (Independent (affiliation)) on Monday, 1 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 June 2026. It was answered by Chris Bryant (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.

Trade Agreements: Gulf States

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to his Department's press release entitled UK and Gulf strike historic multi-billion pound trade deal, published on 21 May 2026, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of that agreement on (a) the London Gateway Port and (b) other ports in Essex.

Answer

The UK–GCC Free Trade Agreement will support economic growth across the UK, with modelling estimating it could increase UK GDP by around £3.7 billion annually in the long run when compared to 2040 projections. It is estimated to boost bilateral trade by nearly 20%.

The agreement will support more efficient movement of goods and smoother supply chains, benefiting major logistics hubs such as London Gateway and other UK ports. The government will publish a full impact assessment alongside signature which will set out the impacts of the UK – GCC FTA on sectors, regions and protected characteristics.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
5820
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Essex Ports Gulf states Trade agreements
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk