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Seafood Industry Australia (SIA), the national peak-body representing Australia’s commercial seafood industry, has welcomed the announcement of the Australia-UK free trade agreement as the industry works to diversify their markets. 

“This announcement marks a period of renewed growth and opportunity for the Australian seafood industry, and we look forward to building strong and vibrant relationships with our UK customers,” SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta said. 

“Last Friday (AU-time), prime ministers Scott Morrison and Boris Johnson signed an ‘in-principle’ trade deal between Australia and the United Kingdom. This landmark deal will guarantee tariff-free, quota-free access to the UK market for Australian seafood products.

“As an industry we have been working hard over the past two years to diversify our markets to ensure we have a resilient export strategy. This announcement provides a significant leap forward in market access which is welcomed by the industry. 

“Importantly, there will be an elimination of tariffs on entry into force (EIF)  including those on all fin-fish and, the 12% tariff on fresh and frozen rock lobster. The remaining tariffs will be eliminated over three years. 

“Our Great Australian Seafood producers will now have access to more than 65 million UK consumers who value our safe, sustainably produced Great Australian Seafood. While UK consumers will have access to some of the greatest seafood in the world. 

“Australia is a world leader in sustainable fisheries management. For the eighth consecutive year our Commonwealth-managed fisheries have been given the tick of sustainability. This is something our commercial fishers are very proud of, and is unprecedented internationally. Coupled with our aquaculture sector who provide fresh, high-quality seafood, year-round – Australian seafood is one of the best managed, healthiest and most sustainable protein sources in the world.

“We applaud Trade Minister Dan Tehan and our negotiation team on an improved set of market access outcomes. The UK deal will create new and needed opportunities for Australia’s seafood producers in a high-value market. The Coalition has provided unwavering support for the Australian seafood industry throughout the COVID-19 economic crisis. SIA, on behalf of our members and the entire Australian seafood industry, extends thanks to all parties who worked hard to action this deal which will help keep Australian seafood businesses and jobs afloat, and put our Great Australian Seafood on UK tables.

“We’d also like to acknowledge the hard work of Seafood Trade Advisory Group, the Seafood Export Consultative Committee and all members of the Australian seafood industry who have worked tirelessly with the government to help secure this deal.”

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For more information or to organise an interview with SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta

please contact SIA communications and public affairs manager Jessica McInerney

E: [email protected] M: 0420 695 431