Chamber gives thumbs-up for Whitehall export focus
The North East’s biggest business organisation has welcomed a new Government focus on exports.
In a speech to a business audience in London, International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said Britain had the potential to be a “21st century exporting superpower”.
He outlined an export strategy, which includes measures to:
Encourage and inspire more businesses to export, includingan“increasedfocuson amplifying the voice of existing exporters to inspire other businesses and facilitating peer-to-peer learning”;
Giving businesses information, advice and practical assistance on exporting;
Connecting UK businesses to overseas buyers, markets and each other;
Putting “finance at the heart of our offer”.
Jack Simpson, North East England Chamber of Commerce policy adviser, was pleased to see the Government recognise the importance of exporting to the UK’s future economic well-being.
And said the organisation would be highlighting the needs of the region’s industry in talks with officials.
“We welcome the eagerlyawaited Future Export Strategy, which aims to develop existing export support, and encourage new exporters to realise their global potential,” he said.
“Following a spring consultation with Chamber members, it is encouraging to see Government has listened to North East businesses, who highlighted the need for streamlined and tailored export support, improved signposting of new market opportunities, and development of peer to peer export support in the business community.
“We now need to see clear and committed action from to put words into action.
“Using a digital platform to quickly inform business about new opportunities or access to markets makes sense, however, the Government should not underestimate the value of personal support provided by the International Trade Advisors, which best help business understand the nuts and bolts of exporting and export support.
“The Chamber looks forward to engaging with the Department for International Trade to develop an exporting strategy that strengthens and expands our strong regional exporting community.”