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Written question asked by Andrew Griffith (Conservative) on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 June 2026 (named day). It was answered by Chris Bryant (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.


Trade Agreements: United Arab Emirates

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to negotiate a free trade agreement between the United Kingdom and the UAE.

Answer

The UK concluded a Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on 20 May, which will strengthen trade and investment ties with all six member states.

The UK’s focus is working with the UAE and GCC towards signature and entry into force of the FTA, so that businesses can realise its benefits.

In addition, the UAE is seeking membership of the CPTPP, which the UK supports.

The UAE is the UK’s largest trading partner in the GCC, with total trade in goods and services worth £25 billion in 2025. The UK values this relationship and will continue to deepen cooperation in trade and investment.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
8879
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Trade agreements United Arab Emirates
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk