How might new trade agreements affect public health in Wales?

Wednesday 24th November 2021
With Public Health Network Cymru

Following its departure from the European Union, the UK Government is negotiating international free trade agreements for the first time in nearly 50 years. This brings both risks and opportunities for public health.

Trade agreements have the potential to affect health and well-being in Wales in many ways – from the food we eat to our healthcare services, job market and ability to invest in public services. They may also affect the ability of the Welsh Government to improve public health through new policy.

This webinar explored what trade agreements are and why they have important potential consequences for health and well-being in Wales.

We heard from independent experts on how a new piece of trade legislation, the UK Internal Market Act, and the UK’s plans to join a large free trade agreement has the potential to limit the Welsh Government’s ability to pass effective public health policy in future.

The webinar included a panel discussion, where participants were encouraged to ask their questions of our expert panel.

We hope the webinar helped public health professionals and third sector organisations understand how trade agreements may affect their work.