BRUSSELS – May 13, 2020 – The Global Data Alliance commends the United Kingdom’s release of negotiating objectives for a UK-Japan free trade agreement (FTA). These negotiations are an important opportunity for two of the world’s most connected economies to negotiate a forward-looking and progressive agreement that will safeguard the responsible movement of data across borders and spur economic growth and innovation.

“The United Kingdom and Japan are strong proponents of advancing and building trust in the digital economy,” said Joseph Whitlock, Director, Policy at BSA | The Software Alliance. “Reflecting that shared commitment in these FTA negotiations will enhance business predictability, build trust, and accelerate growth in every sector – from the avionics and automotive sectors to healthcare and financial services.”

About the Global Data Alliance

The Global Data Alliance (globaldataalliance.org) is a cross-industry coalition of companies that are committed to high standards of data responsibility and that rely on the ability to transfer data around the world to innovate and create jobs. The Alliance supports policies that help instill trust in the digital economy while safeguarding the ability to transfer data across borders and refraining from imposing data localization requirements that restrict trade.

Alliance members include BSA members and American Express, Amgen, AT&T, ITB360, Mastercard, Panasonic, United Airlines, Verizon, Visa, and WD-40 Company. These companies are headquartered across the globe and are active in the advanced manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, electronics, energy, financial services, health, supply chain, and telecommunications sectors, among others. BSA | The Software Alliance administers the Global Data Alliance.