A significant jump in exports came from the US which saw total annual trade between the two countries surpassing £200 billion for the first time.
The trade figures show a 4.2% jump in exports to countries outside the EU, in comparison to a 1.6% increase to EU members.
Exports of goods and services to the US increased 9.3% to £126 billion, a promising figure as trade talks continue.
Demand for UK goods and services in China also saw a significant increase in this period of 13.9% to £24 billion. This comes as the Department for International Trade’s trip to Beijing Expo 2019 approaches a close.
In the lead up to the Rugby World Cup, which is now in its second week, UK exports to Japan have seen a rise of 9.2% from £13.1 billion to £14.3 billion in the year ending June 2019
UK firms such as Harrod Sport and Sports Travel Hospitality have made the most of the major sports event to export their goods and services to the country, securing contracts at the games for their products including hospitality packages and supplying rugby goal posts.
“Leaving the EU provides the UK with great opportunities to form closer relations with countries outside the EU bloc,” International Trade Secretary Liz Truss commented.
She added: “Following my recent trips to the US and Japan, it is clear to see the potential that trading with our close friends across the world brings to the UK economy.
“Businesses are already making the most of opportunities such as the Rugby World Cup to take their products to market abroad.
“And there is so much more to gain. When we leave the EU, we will open more of these markets up to help UK businesses seize the opportunities in front of them.”
