Trade agreement with Liverpool 'a landmark moment', says government

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is being hailed as a 'landmark' moment and comes after the Department for Enterprise became a strategic partner of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce last year, aiming to foster trade opportunities between Isle of Man businesses and the 600 members of the Liverpool Chamber.

It's a 'major step forward', government says, in 'forging new opportunities for growth and development in areas including':

• Economic opportunities
• Tourism and cultural cooperation
• Transport connections
• Health and public services
• Infrastructure, energy and net zero

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan says: 'The Isle of Man and Liverpool have deep and historic ties of mutual cooperation. I am delighted to sign this Memorandum of Understanding with our neighbours across the Irish Sea to forge new opportunities for growth and collaboration between our two regions.

'Our investment in the new ferry terminal in the city is our biggest single investment in the UK, ever, and has been a catalyst for these discussions. The significance of us signing the agreement in the new ferry terminal should not be lost, it is a clear commitment to how important the connection between the two regions is.

'The Isle of Man and Liverpool have been connected via the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company – the oldest continuously running ferry company in the world – which has seen the continuous movement of people, goods and ideas across the Irish Sea – for business, education, sport, tourism or visiting family and friends – for two centuries.

'The signing of this MoU is a clear statement from both administrations that forging closer economic ties is a strategic priority and one which offers mutual benefits.

'But the opportunities for both regions go beyond the economic benefits of business collaboration and the opportunity for the wider sharing and cooperation on public services will have positive impacts for our communities.

'I look forward to continuing to work closely with colleagues to realise the potential that this exciting partnership will offer.'

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram says: 'From being a go-to tourist destination favoured by Liverpudlians for decades, the Isle of Man has always been a highly valued neighbour to our region, and this agreement is a reflection of our commitment to strengthening that bond.

'For centuries, our people have been connected through travel, trade, and shared culture, and today we are taking that relationship to the next level.

'This MoU marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation, one that will unlock new opportunities for economic growth, skills development, and sustainable innovation. By working more closely together, we can create a more dynamic and prosperous future for our businesses, our communities, and our residents.'

Leader of Liverpool City Council, Cllr Liam Robinson, says: 'Many people from the Liverpool City Region have long, fond associations with the Isle of Man dating back generations.

'It makes sense for us to forge closer ties with one of our nearest neighbours, exploring opportunities for collaboration and mutually beneficial associations.

'By signing this MoU, we are opening the door to greater innovation, technology exchange, and investment opportunities.’