Martin Kent new trade commissioner for Asia Pacific

Former Boston Consulting Group Martin Kent has taken on a key role with the UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade. Serving as the UK’s new trade commissioner for Asia Pacific, he will play an important role in seeking out new free trade agreements across the region.

Since the UK’s exit from the European Union, it has been searching for new free trade partners to make up for the expensive process. A deal with India has reportedly been on the brink of being signed for the best part of three years, while a proposed free trade deal with the US seems to have been jettisoned – business and trade minister Kemi Badenoch having admitted there is “zero” chance of it happening under Joe Biden’s presidency, while the US reportedly would expect access to the UK’s agriculture market as part of any accord.

As Britain looks to turn the tide and find new trade partners, however, it the government has installed a new trade commissioner for the Asia Pacific. Succeeding Natalie Black, Martin Kent steps into the role, to lead the UK’s efforts promoting the country’s trade, investment and export finance across the region.

Speaking on the appointment, Badenoch commented, “Our network of trade commissioners 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 the Asia Pacific, expanding opportunities for British businesses in one of the world’s fastest growing markets.”

There is already a growing investment relationship between the UK and Asia Pacific – with trade between the regions worth £120.5 billion. However, with a growing population and booming economies, the UK government believes Asia Pacific holds even more potential for UK businesses and consumers. As the new trade commissioner for Asia Pacific, Kent will generate business opportunities for the UK, while contributing to the growth of sustainable, resilient, and productive economies across the region.

Kent brings extensive public and private sector experience to this mission. Prior to his new role, he was the minister and deputy head of mission in the British Embassy Tokyo, a director within the Department for Business and Trade, and also deputy trade commissioner for Africa. He started his career with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and has worked across the Asia Pacific region, including in BCG’s Singapore and Australia offices.

Speaking on his new challenge, Kent added, “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.”