SMMT statement on UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement

Friday 17 December, 2021

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:

The announcement of the first full and all new post-Brexit trade deal provides the UK automotive sector with tariff-free access to Australia, one of the main global growth markets. It also creates an opportunity to diversify supply chains to build the batteries essential for our transition to zero-emission motoring. Britain’s automotive manufacturers will, however, still face challenges in trading with our sixth largest market given Australia’s tax policies are more punitive towards foreign-made premium cars, a segment in which the UK – with its array of famous brands – is one of the world leaders.