UK trade deal could open gates to more British tourists, workers

The Capes’ wine and tourism economy could see a significant boost thanks to a new UK trade deal inked last week.

The deal was the first signed between the Brits and Australia since the UK Government led its country out of the European Union.

While the deal would give a boost to important exports such as wine — with vintners on the hunt to expand markets while sweltering under Chinese tariffs — the greatest impact from the deal would be the human factor. Under the agreement, British citizens under 35 would have a more streamlined and easier way into Australia, and different conditions to those placed on backpackers from other countries.

“In Australia, it means that we will be moving forward with an agriculture visa,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. “One of the biggest challenges we have, particularly in COVID when there’s such restriction on movements of people, we need to meet workforce challenges to ensure our primary producers, in particular, can make the most of the linear agreement we’ve agreed here today.”

The new deal would also allow UK workers to stay in the country for longer, and possible resettle.

Margaret River Wine Association chief executive Amanda Whiteland told the Times measures to re-move trade barriers were welcomed.

“The UK market is an important wine market for Australian wine, and of course, the Margaret River wine region,” she said.

Shire president Ian Earl also said the freshly inked deal was “great news” for the region.

“It will provide an improved market for much of our products, including wine,” he said. “Any extra people who can get here once they can clear the COVID-19 requirements will be welcomed by all businesses.

“There is still a critical shortage of workers in many businesses. We will be very happy to see them back as tourists as well.”

The deal could also increase workers available in the struggling hospitality sector.