The appointment of Alastair Long as His Majesty's Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa is a strategic move aimed at bolstering the UK's economic ties with the African continent. As of August 2023, Mr Long will assume this crucial role, bringing over two decades of experience in diplomatic and trade-related postings to the position. Notably, he has previously served as Deputy and then Acting Trade Commissioner for Africa between 2019 and 2022.
Currently, Mr Long is His Majesty's Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, a post he took up in August 2023. He joined the Foreign Office in 2002 and has held various overseas roles, including HM Deputy Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Director Trade & Investment for Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, Regional Director for Trade for the Middle East, Pakistan & Afghanistan in Dubai, and Deputy Ambassador and HM Consul General in Muscat.
In his new capacity as HMTC for Africa, Mr Long will spearhead efforts to expand trade and investment relationships between the UK and the African continent. His mandate encompasses improving market access for British companies – including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – and developing trade policy. He will work closely with UK-based government colleagues, British ambassadors, and the wider diplomatic network within Africa to achieve these objectives.
Speaking on his appointment, Mr Long expressed enthusiasm for returning to the continent, stating that he views Africa as 'the future', highlighting its 'boundless energy and ambition'. He reaffirmed the UK's commitment to being a supportive partner for both African and British growth, stressing the importance of understanding African priorities while offering the best of what the UK has to provide. He looks forward to engaging with stakeholders across the continent, the UK business community, and the UK Government team to realise mutual opportunities.
Mr Long succeeds John Humphrey, who held the role since June 2022. Mr Humphrey noted the significance of Africa to the UK's global outlook, highlighting substantial opportunities for commercially grounded collaboration and sustainable growth. He expressed confidence that Mr Long, with his deep trade expertise, will build upon existing momentum to deepen partnerships and unlock further mutual benefits.