Natalie Black provides update on UK’s trade progress in Asia Pacific

The shifts taking place across Asia’s business and investment landscape were central to a discussion with Natalie Black, the UK’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific, when she briefed Asia House Corporate Members today.

Black outlined the UK’s efforts to build trade relationships in the region and provided an update on the key sectors likely to drive future growth. The trade envoy also gave an overview of COVID-19’s impact on the Asia Pacific during the off-the-record briefing.

Asia House Corporate Members joined the digital discussion from around the world, with Black taking a range of questions on Asia Pacific’s dynamic trade and investment environment.

The progress on trade negotiations, including UK free trade agreements with Japan, Vietnam and China, as well as the status of RCEP, were all discussed, as were investment and supply chain shifts across the region.

Black was also asked about the UK’s relationships with ASEAN and China, and some of the reputational challenges the UK is facing in Asian markets.

The briefing, chaired by Asia House Chief Executive Michael Lawrence, gave Corporate Members a comprehensive and insightful update on the UK’s efforts to increase trade and investment in Asia.

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Asia House is assisting the Department for International Trade to share information for UK businesses operating in Asia affected by COVID-19. View the information here.