LONDON- Al-Yurae — The United Kingdom announced a series of new trade measures Thursday aimed at simplifying imports from developing countries, a move expected to lower prices on everyday goods for British consumers while supporting jobs and growth in some of the world’s poorest nations.
The government said it will cut import taxes on products from several of the world’s least developed countries. The Developing Countries Trading Scheme, set to take effect in January, expands on a previous program that the UK participated in as a member of the European Union.
Under the scheme, goods such as clothing, shoes and foods not widely produced in the UK will benefit from lower or zero tariffs. In total, 65 developing countries will be covered.
The measures are designed to give UK consumers greater access to competitively priced imports, including clothing, food and electronics. Upgrades to the scheme will make it easier for businesses to trade with the UK, helping to reduce prices on the high street.
Key changes include simplified rules of origin, allowing more goods from countries such as Nigeria, Sri Lanka and the Philippines to enter the UK tariff-free, even if they use components sourced from across Asia and Africa. Countries like Bangladesh and Cambodia will continue to benefit from zero tariffs on products including garments and electronics.
Officials said the reforms will open new commercial opportunities for UK businesses, enabling them to build resilient supply chains, invest in emerging markets and tap into fast-growing economies.
In addition to changes under the trading scheme, the UK will offer targeted support to help exporters in developing countries access the UK market and meet import standards. The government also plans to make it easier for partner countries to trade services, such as digital, legal and financial services, by strengthening future trade agreements.
Major UK retailers, including Marks & Spencer and Primark, are expected to benefit from the updated rules, which are part of the country’s broader Trade for Development initiative. The strategy aims to support economic growth in partner countries while ensuring UK businesses and consumers have access to high-quality, affordable goods.
The announcement follows the recent publication of the UK’s Trade Strategy, which outlines plans to grow the economy, strengthen international ties and deliver benefits for households across the country
