Today, on #backbritishfarmingday I am pleased to share some amazing news with farmers across the South West, who are set to benefit from future Free Trade Agreements with the US, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, which will open up new opportunities to sell our world-class local produce overseas.
The International Trade Minister, Ranil Jayawardena visited a number of farms across the South West last month to see first-hand the agricultural exporting potential of the region and discuss future opportunities for growth. Government analysis shows that a future trade deal with the US could deliver a £284 million boost to the South West economy, including for the South West’s specialist dairy producers and agricultural industry. The deal will help to create new jobs and could boost wages nationwide by £1.8 billion a year in the long run.
The US is already the South West’s largest export market, accounting for almost one fifth of all South West’s goods exports. A UK-US trade deal could eliminate tariffs of up to 25% on South West dairy products and cheese sold in the US in the near future. All the while, we maintain our steadfast commitment to never sacrificing our own high British food standards, which will stay the same or be strengthened further.
Last week I met with dairy farmer, Tom Stainer at Snarlton Farm in Melksham to discuss the industry and see for myself what an amazing service the “milk station” has provided for residents of Melksham during the height of the pandemic. I look forward to supporting farmers like Tom in the months and years to come and urge residents to continue to buy local and support sustainable trade and agriculture.
