Bramley Apples and Lough Neagh eels may officially recognised in new trade deal with Japan

The deal was struck by International Trade Secretary Liz Truss and Japan’s Foreign Minister via a video call on Friday morning.

The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement is the UK’s first major trade deal outside the EU.

According to the Department of Trade, the deal secures additional benefits beyond the EU-Japan trade deal, including a way for Northern Ireland products to be officially recognised.

“By increasing geographical indications (GIs) from just seven under the terms of the EU-Japan deal to potentially over 70 under the UK-Japan agreement, this would lead to improved recognition of key UK brands in the Japanese market,” said a Department of Trade spokesperson.

Products that could benefit from the new arrangements are Irish poteen, Armagh bramley apples, Lough Neagh eels and pollan.

The spokesperson said: “A deal could increase UK trade with Japan by £15.2 billion, giving a £1.5b boost to economy and increasing UK workers’ wages by £800 million in the long run. This will benefit the 120 businesses in NI that exported to Japan last year.”

International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: “This is a historic moment for the UK and Japan. “From our Armagh bramley apples and Irish poteen to our specialist tea makers, this deal will create new opportunities for people throughout NI and help level up the whole of the UK. 

Secretary of State Brandon Lewis said: “120 NI businesses already trade with Japan, and this deal will see that increase, boosting jobs.”

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