Transparency data

Minutes of the fifth meeting between the TSD DAG and DBT, February 2025

Updated 15 May 2025

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Executive summary

This was the fifth meeting of the first Trade and Sustainable Development Domestic Advisory Group (TSD DAG) since the group was established in September 2022.

It was the final meeting of the group before the renewal process. The renewed TSD DAG, incorporating new and renewing members, will be convened in April 2025 to continue this role. The agenda included an update on Department for Business and Trade (DBT) priorities and strategy, as well as a session for the TSD DAG to discuss future ways of working.

Opening remarks

DBT introduced the meeting, thanking everyone for their contributions to date and outlined the agenda for the day. DBT emphasised the importance of effective engagement and the new government’s focus on working with stakeholders.

Chair’s remarks

The TSD DAG Chair highlighted the collaborative relationship between the DAG and DBT, expressing hope for continuity and a platform to build on in the renewed DAG, noting the importance of this partnership in achieving collective goals. The TSD DAG Chair further thanked everyone present for their time and contributions.

Recap of achievements

Since the founding of the TSD DAG in September 2022 there have been a number of successful engagements with partner countries, including multiple TSD sub-committees (SCs) and civil society forums (CSFs). Additional international engagement outside of formal meetings, such as thematic sessions, have contributed directly to establishing successful co-operation activities in areas such as clean energy.

New models of stakeholder participation have been developed and successfully implemented. This includes the public submissions portal for Australia, New Zealand, and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) free trade agreements (FTAs), and DAG participation at a topic-focused public forum session through the CPTPP on plastic regulation.

Regular meetings between the DAG and DBT, including 5 plenary sessions and monthly chair meetings has provided extensive policy input and advice. Active DAG engagement in CSFs has benefited DBT and partner countries alike, and ministerial correspondence has facilitated wider policy discussions and resolutions.

Stocktake of progress

DBT introduced and discussed progress in embedding positive ways of working, highlighting the value placed on established procedures, effective outputs and engaged participation. DBT expressed gratitude for the valued contribution of DAG members within these areas. In particular, members were thanked for contributing to meaningful discussions in multiple CSFs, supporting monitoring and implementation of FTA commitments.

Areas for consideration

DBT opened a discussion around considerations for DBT and the renewed DAG. It was agreed to deepen the feedback loop by exploring the possibility of CSFs preceding SCs so that outputs can directly inform SC agendas. Furthermore, additional meetings with DBT, based on DAG interests such as policy deep dives and technical teachings, was suggested to enhance the effectiveness of engagements. Finally, the TSD DAG expressed an interest in exploring thematic issues, common across multiple partners, to maximise use of their expertise.

Immediate focus and actions

DBT detailed the immediate focus and actions for DBT in 2025, including to:

  • plan engagements with partner countries
  • enhance feedback and communication between CSFs and formal SCs
  • actively support DAG-to-DAG engagement to foster information sharing and co-operation activities
  • formally establish the renewed DAG, incorporating new member organisations to diversify expertise

A brief outline of planned engagements in 2025 was also provided.

New DAG members

DBT announced the addition of 5 new member organisations to the renewed DAG.

  • Transform Trade
  • Trade Justice Movement
  • London Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Greater Manchester Business Board
  • Agricultural Industries Confederation

The new members will bring novel expertise and interests to the group, complementing the 10 renewing organisations.

Private DAG discussion

The TSD DAG conducted a private discussion amongst members to discuss key takeaways and areas for consideration.

Summary and closing remarks

DBT provided a short summary of the day and the discussion. The TSD DAG provided some additional closing remarks and thanked DBT for hosting the event.

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