Arts and culture is a cornerstone in the UK’s global influence and soft power but creative industries have been badly impacted in the aftermath of Brexit. As the government pursues new international trade deals, the UK Trade and Business Commission took evidence on the current economic challenges facing the creative sectors and what is required in future trade deals to ensure the UK's cultural sector thrives.

This session of the UK Trade and Business Commission took evidence on the fashion and textile industry and the potential UK-India Free Trade Agreement.

The UK’s cultural and creative sectors are rarely considered when trade deals are discussed, despite significant and diverse exports from computer games to music, theatre to fashion. Such neglect has led to problems, most notably in the hugely increased difficulties UK cultural and creative workers now face in touring or working around Europe.