UK and New Zealand reaffirm Free Trade Agreement partnership
UK and New Zealand officials issued a joint statement on 11 June 2026 reaffirming their commitment to the New Zealand–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement. The statement underscores both nations' continued engagement with the agreement framework, though the source does not disclose new tariff schedules, rule-of-origin amendments, or other substantive trade changes at this time.
Photo: Kent Kan / PexelsOn 11 June 2026, the UK Department for Business and Trade and New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment released a joint statement affirming their partnership under the New Zealand–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement.
The statement represents a formal reaffirmation of both parties' commitment to the FTA, which has governed bilateral tariff treatment and preferential market access since its entry into force. However, the source does not outline new tariff reductions, product coverage, rules of origin, or other substantive amendments requiring shipper action.
Shippers currently moving goods between the UK and New Zealand should continue to apply the existing preferential tariff rates and rules of origin under the FTA. Any changes to the agreement—such as expanded duty-free schedules, modified substantial-transformation rules for specific HS chapters, or new certificate-of-origin requirements—would be communicated through separate statutory instruments or official amending protocols.
What this means for shippers
This joint statement confirms the UK–NZ FTA remains in force; no immediate tariff or compliance changes are required. Continue claiming existing preferential rates on eligible goods. Monitor official UK and NZ trade portals for any future protocol amendments or implementing guidance. For real-time duty estimates under current terms, verify your HS classification and origin eligibility.
