Prime Minister Keir Starmer has finalised a trade agreement with six Gulf states, worth an estimated £3.7 billion in export opportunities—double initial projections. The deal, described by Starmer as a 'huge win' for British business, covers sectors including food, luxury cars, defence, aerospace, hospitality, and services.
The agreement removes tariffs on 93% of British goods sold in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. Products such as cheddar cheese, chocolate, and cars, previously taxed at up to 15%, will now face zero tariffs. UK services, which account for 80% of the economy, gain guaranteed access to these markets.
However, the deal has drawn criticism for omitting a human rights chapter. Tom Wills of the Trade Justice Movement called the omission 'especially alarming given the severe human rights abuses across the Gulf region'. The government defended its approach, stating it prefers to address such issues through political channels.
The National Farmers’ Union welcomed the deal as the best agricultural agreement since Brexit, after successfully resisting demands to lower poultry standards. The British Chambers of Commerce said it would create new opportunities in financial services, energy, construction, and technology.
This is Starmer's third trade deal, following pacts with India and South Korea. The UK is the first G7 nation to secure such an agreement with the GCC. Critics, including the Trade Unions Congress and human rights groups, expressed disappointment, arguing the deal legitimises repression in the region.
