Chamber Represents North East Exporters at a National Level
Date published:
During International Trade Week (November 2023), the Chamber took the opportunity to represent our members at the British Chamber of Commerce’s International Trade Breakfast within Westminster.
Attended by politicians, members of the Chamber network and globally-trading businesses, the reception provided us with an opportunity to hear from exporters and ministers about their vision for the UK on a global platform.
The event started by hearing from the British Chamber of Commerce’s Director General, Shevaun Haviland. Shevaun highlighted the important role that trade plays within the Chamber network, as well as proposals for improving trade through the BCC Trade Manifesto.
We then heard from government Minister for International Trade Nigel Huddleston, and Shadow Minister for Exports Afzal Khan, who both reiterated their ambitions to achieve a trade value of one trillion pounds by 2030- or even earlier. Both view the digitisation of trade as an important asset to the UK, and believe that it will lead to more seamless processes for exporters.
Last but by no means least, we listened to CEO of WTA Rochelle Sommer, who shared a view of international trade from a logistics perspective, and the challenges many exporters face.
The event provided our trade team with the opportunity to make new connections, and advocate for ways in which the trading climate can be improved for our members.
As always we will continue to explore opportunities where we can grow our network to give our trading members access to expert advice and insights. To see our own international trade policy recommendations as part of our strategy for a stronger, fairer North East, click here.