The United Kingdom has shown "real interest" in joining Australia in the Trans-Pacific Partnership once Brexit is finalised.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the UK has had preliminary discussions about joining the 11-nation free trade deal.
"You can see the attraction of it to the UK, because if they were to join the TPP they would be entering into a high quality trade agreement with 11 other countries in one hit," he told reporters in London on Thursday local time.
"Of course it would have to be negotiated with all those 11 other countries, including Australia.
"But nonetheless, it is impressive I think to see the strong interest shown by the UK."
Mr Turnbull said the UK has announced three new diplomatic postings in the Pacific, and joining the TPP would be another way to spread its influence in the region after it leaves the European Union.
United States President Donald Trump also had talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe this week and he dangled the prospect to joining the TPP after he pulled out of it.
"I don't want to go back into TPP, but if they offered us a deal I can't refuse on behalf of the US I would do it," Mr Trump told reporters after two days of talks with Mr Abe.
"I like bilateral deals."
Mr Abe, a main architect of the revived TPP with Australia, on Wednesday emphasised Japan's preference the US joined TPP.
"Our country's position is TPP is the best for both of the countries and based on that position we shall be dealing with the talks," Mr Abe said.
Australian Associated Press
