Firm’s boss says more detail needed on future trade

THE head of a Northern Ireland export firm used as a success story by the Department for International Trade (DIT) has said it’s encountered no difficulties from Brexit so far.

But the boss of Sensoteq in Belfast said more detail was required on the future for trade.

Around 30 organisations and firms attended a DIT event in the offices of economic development agency Invest NI in Belfast.

DIT said the event was an opportunity for businesses to discuss how the UK should forge trading relationships with the rest of the world after Brexit.

In particular, it discussed the potential of exports markets in the USA, Australia, New Zealand and potential accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

DIT said exports to the USA, Australia, New Zealand and the Trans Pacific Partnership countries were worth £2.35bn for Northern Ireland last year. It’s using the export success of Sensoteq to highlight potential export markets.

Sensoteq last week announced a $1m Canadian distribution deal for its wireless sensor systems.

The systems are used for monitoring and conditioning machines for the industrial sector, including in the waste and recycling field.

Sensoteq boss Idir Boudaoud said it’s aiming to continue growing exports to North America, Europe and to get into new markets such as Asia Pacific (APAC).

“We haven’t found any difficulties so far related to Brexit, even though the situation is not very clear,” he told the Belfast Telegraph. “We are not sure what would happen after Brexit, but trust that UK Government will come up with a deal which will not have any negative impact to exports.

“The currency is likely to drop during final negotiations, which should help exports even more.”

DIT is also holding online consultations for members of the public.