Big win for UK artists: Fairer pay from New Zealand on the way
New Zealand deal secures fairer payments for British artists and strengthens creative ties
Artists from the UK are set to gain new royalties whenever their creations are sold again in New Zealand. On December 2, the UK government announced a new agreement under the UK-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The FTA is a deal between the two countries to make trade and cooperation easier.
The new agreement means they British artists will now earn fair royalties, boosting the UK's art industry, which sent approximately £2 million worth of art-related goods to New Zealand in 2021.
Trade Minister Douglas Alexander said “Resale royalties are an important income stream for our talented British artists, helping them continue to produce art and showcase it in homes and galleries around the world. With UK art exports to New Zealand reaching over £8 million between 2016 and 2021, this new arrangement will help boost the income of our world-class creatives.".
In more detail, the updated regulations allow UK artists to collect resale royalties under the Artist’s Resale Right (ARR) whenever their artwork—such as paintings, sculptures, prints, or photographs—is resold within New Zealand’s professional art market.
The deal is not just about money - it’s about making sure artists get the respect and opportunities they deserve. This is good news for artists, art enthusiasts, and the connection between the UK and New Zealand.