Events promoting overseas trade staged in Bristol for Export Week

April 22, 2013

More West firms will be encouraged to trade overseas in a series of events in the Bristol area as part of the second annual Export Week.

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) South West has teamed up with partners and business organisations to organise the week-long programme between May 13 and 17.

While developed economies continue to struggle with financial uncertainty and slow recovery, the global economic centre of gravity has shifted towards high-growth markets including the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China), and other emerging market such as Mexico, Indonesia, Vietnam and South Africa.

The series of seminars and events held during Export Week will offer unique and informed advice on how to go about doing business in these markets where increasing numbers of UK companies are prospering.

UKTI regional director Russell Jones said: “There is no doubt that the past year has been full of challenges for the region’s companies. It is encouraging to see that the number of South West active exporters has increased by 3.7% while other regions have seen a decrease, but we cannot be complacent and there is still much more room for development.

“We know that expansion into high-growth markets can be easier said than done. We provide a range of support for exporters, whether first-time or experienced, large or small, to ensure lasting success overseas and at home. We also know that one of the biggest investments any company can make is in their time, and we hope that the expertise and advice we’re making available to business across the UK throughout high-growth markets week can help put UK businesses on a fast track to success.”

Trade and investment minister Lord Green added: “High-growth markets are changing the face of international business – these are the world's growing economies, which offer tomorrow's opportunities. With so many millions of potential new customers, low-cost communications, and improving infrastructure, the time to act is now.

“Export Week will see more than 50 events across the UK designed to inspire and encourage businesses to take up the National Export Challenge by taking advantage of the endless commercial opportunities in fast growing markets. Attendees will have access to British Ambassadors and overseas trade experts from the world's most rapidly growing markets, and locally based UKTI trade advisers.

“The government will support you as effectively as it can but the first step must come from business, so I would encourage you to take that step today and seize the challenge.”

Export Week will uncover the growth dynamics, consumer and cultural differences, and risks associated with operating in new markets around the world. Events taking place in Bristol during Export Week include:

Monday 13 May