The UK has struck its first major post-Brexit trade pact after signing a deal with Japan that aims to boost trade between the countries by about £15bn.
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said it was a "historic moment".
She said it would bring "new wins" for British businesses in manufacturing, food and drink, and tech industries.
Critics said while the deal may be of symbolic importance it would boost UK GDP by only 0.07%, a fraction of the trade that could be lost with the EU.
Friday's deal still needs approval by Japan's parliament, which the country's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi forecast would be passed by January.
Ms Truss said the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement means 99% of exports to Japan will be tariff-free.
"The agreement we have negotiated - in record time and in challenging circumstances - goes far beyond the existing EU deal, as it secures new wins for British businesses in our great manufacturing, food and drink, and tech industries," she said.
"From our automotive workers in Wales to our shoemakers in the North of England, this deal will help build back better as we create new opportunities for people throughout the whole of the UK and help level up our country."
She added that, strategically, the deal was an important step towards joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership and placing Britain at the centre of a network of free trade agreements.
Major Japanese investors in the UK such as Nissan and Hitachi would benefit from reduced tariffs on parts coming from Japan and streamlined regulatory procedures, the UK's trade department statement said.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said Brexit gives Britain the freedom to strike trade deals with other countries around the world.
Business leaders welcomed the agreement but stressed that securing a deal with the EU remained the most important goal.
The director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce, Adam Marshall, called the announcement a milestone, but added: "Whilst this agreement is undoubtedly cause for celebration, securing a Free Trade Agreement with the EU remains critical to the future of businesses in the UK.
"We urge ministers to redouble their efforts to reach a comprehensive partnership with our largest trading partner at a crucial time in the negotiations."
The CBI also hailed the agreement, with director-general Carolyn Fairbairn saying this "breakthrough moment" can be the first of many.
"It's a huge opportunity to secure new Japanese investment across a wider range of sectors and UK regions," she said.
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