Companies fly out for Middle East business
WELSH companies will be targeting the Middle East for new export order wins this weekend.
Nine firms from a variety of sectors are taking part in a Welsh Government-led trade mission to Qatar and Kuwait.
The visit comes ahead of the launch of daily direct flights between Cardiff Airport and Doha in Qatar next May and is aimed at helping businesses capitalise on the trading and export opportunities presented by the new long-haul route.
Companies participating include Teddington Engineered Solutions in Llanelli, the British Rototherm Company in Port Talbot and food producer Rachel’s Dairy in Aberystwyth.
The visit will travel first to Qatar before heading on to Kuwait.
Speaking ahead of the trade mission, Economy Secretary Ken Skates said: “This Welsh Government-led trade mission to Qatar and Kuwait is well-timed coming ahead of the introduction of daily and direct flights between Cardiff Airport and Doha that will transform Wales’ relationship with the Middle East.
“The new route will provide huge opportunities and as a Welsh Government we want to do all we can to ensure that these opportunities are capitalised on and turned into tangible economic benefits for Welsh companies.
“Exporting really does have the potential to transform a business and take it to the next level and as the UK prepares to leave the EU, increasing the value of Welsh exports to other markets across the world is more important than ever.
“While Qatar is a relatively small county, it is one of the richest in the world, with a growing population and a profile that will only be heightened over the coming years.
“Kuwait, meanwhile, as the fifthrichest country in the world, is another important market, and I am keen for Welsh companies to develop their trade links with both countries ahead of the introduction of the new flights from Cardiff.”