Meghan Markle's spokesman has rubbished reports of As Ever launching in Australia as "speculation", adding that "no decisions have been made".
It comes as ITV reported that the Duchess of Sussex was setting her sights on Australia as the first international market for her lifestyle brand, thereby bypassing the UK entirely.
Meghan's spokesman exclusively told GB News: “This is speculation. No decisions have been made about when or where international expansion might take place.
“Entering new markets is a considered process, but it’s something the brand is excited to explore as it continues to grow in this next phase. Watch this space.”
Meghan's camp sets the record straight on 'international expansion' of Duchess of Sussex's company
|PA
Last week, it was confirmed that the Duchess of Sussex parted ways with Netflix, which had invested in the lifestyle company that sells products including jam, rosé wine, and flower sprinkles solely in the United States.
A spokesman from As Ever told GB News: “As Ever is grateful for Netflix’s partnership through launch and our first year.
“We have experienced meaningful and rapid growth and As ever is now ready to stand on its own. We have an exciting year ahead and can’t wait to share more.”
Meanwhile, a Netflix spokesman added: “Meghan’s passion for elevating everyday moments in beautiful yet simple ways inspired the creation of the As Ever brand, and we are glad to have played a role in bringing that vision to life.
Meghan Markle pictured on the As Ever Instagram page
|INSTAGRAM: AS EVER
“As it was always intended, Meghan will continue growing the brand and take it into its next chapter independently, and we look forward to celebrating how she continues to bring joy to households around the world."
ITV subsequently reported that Meghan, having chosen to pursue As Ever independently, was exploring opportunities abroad in Australia, with New Zealand also potentially on the horizon.
Her spokesman has since dismissed these reports.
Elsewhere, the Sussexes have confirmed a visit to Australia in mid-April, with Sydney and Melbourne expected to feature on the itinerary.
A product available to buy on the As Ever website for $48 | AS EVERTheir spokesman told the People's Channel: "Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex will visit Australia in mid-April to take part in a number of private, business, and philanthropic engagements.
"Further details will be shared in due course."
GB News understands that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet will not accompany their parents on the journey, instead remaining at the family's California residence to continue their schooling.
The upcoming Australian tour marks a clear shift towards independent ventures for both Harry and Meghan.
Meghan Markle has split with Netflix
| GETTYTheir previous Australian visit in 2018 took place just months after their Windsor Castle wedding.
However, that was an official royal tour as working members of the Royal Family, spanning Australia, Fiji, Tonga and New Zealand over a considerably longer period.
It was during that tour that the couple revealed Meghan was expecting their first child.
This time, however, they will arrive as private citizens accompanied by their own security personnel, though Australian authorities may need to cover additional security costs for any public appearances.