The Government has launched a consultation on an enhanced trade agreement with South Korea and is urging UK farmers to have their say on where changes or improvements could be made to the current association agreement and what should be top of the agenda during trade talks.
The eight-week consultation on a new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with South Korea comes after both parties signed the UK-Korea FTA, which has been in force since 1 January 2021 and replicates, as closely as possible, the terms of the EU-South Korea FTA.
The new agreement is expected to include provisions for digital trade, enhanced climate and further support for small and medium-sized businesses. As part of the negotiations, the UK will also be reviewing Rules of Origin to meet the needs of UK businesses.
The current Agreement allows UK and Korean exporters to count inputs from the EU when determining whether their goods are UK-originating (EU cumulation); however, the provisions expire at the end of 2023.
The National Farmers Union (NFU) is also keen for farmers to have their say on the agreement, saying it may include strong potential for meat and dairy access, as securing access for British beef is an industry priority. There is also strong potential for pork products.
Farmers can either respond directly to the consultation via the Government’s website or could submit evidence directly to the NFU, as the union will be responding to the consultation, so any views submitted to the body would be fed into its response.
Responses to the NFU should be submitted by 16 January 2023, while interested parties responding directly to the Government’s website have until 11.45 on 2 February 2023 to have their say.
Need advice on related matters? Contact the Smailes Goldie team today.
