The UK has appointed Martin Kent as its new His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Asia Pacific. Kent will succeed Natalie Black CBE in the role, which is responsible for generating business opportunities for the UK and promoting Global Britain across the region.
Kent has a long track record of working in Asia and the Pacific, having held roles in the British Embassy in Tokyo, the Department for Business and Trade, and as HM Deputy Trade Commissioner for Africa. He started his career with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and has worked across the region, including in BCG’s Singapore and Australia offices.
In his new role, Kent will also pursue regional security priorities, including protecting free trade and supply chains and continuing the progress already made by the AUKUS security pact.
UK Business and Trade Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, said: “Our network of HMTCs bang the drum for Britain across the world, promoting UK trade, investment, and export finance.
“I am delighted to welcome Martin to this role and am confident he will build on our outstanding track record on trade in Asia Pacific, expanding opportunities for British businesses in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.”
With total UK-Asia Pacific trade worth more than £120 billion, the region offers huge potential for UK businesses. The recently signed trade deals with Australia and New Zealand are set to deliver an economic boost by driving trade up by 53% with Australia and 59% with New Zealand.
Further benefits are to be expected following the signing of the UK’s accession to the CPTPP in July. Being part of the bloc will mean that more than 99 percent of UK goods exported to CPTPP countries will be eligible for zero tariffs.
HM Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific, Martin Kent, said: “I am delighted to be appointed as His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific. The region is the engine room of the global economy and is a major driver of global economic growth and opportunity for UK businesses.
“I will be focused on securing and implementing high-quality Free Trade Agreements, attracting investment to all parts of the UK, opening markets for UK exporters, and positioning the UK as a beacon for free trade in the Asia Pacific region.”
