Member Article

Japan to welcome North East SMEs

Businesses from across the region are to be given the chance to experience first hand the business opportunities which are available to them in Japan.

UK Trade & Investment are encouraging businesses interested in developing their links with international markets to consider joining the delegation, which will take place in Tokyo and Osaka in March 2012.

Japan has an economy four times larger than India, and twice the size of the UK and as the UK’s third largest export market after Europe and the USA, it provides excellent opportunities for regional businesses.

in 2009, the total value of goods and services exported from the UK to Japan was worth more than £8.1 million.

Keith Stockdale, one of UKTI’s International Trade Advisers, who will accompany the delegation, said: “Doing business in Japan takes time and patience and businesses do need to make a long-term commitment.

“However, as many companies have already found, it can pay dividends with rewards often the effort many times over.”

Small businesses are often reluctant to diversify into the exports market due to a lack of knowledge and and uncertainty surrounding the competition. Keith believes that overseas visits like this are perfect for businesses who wish to overcome these fears.

He added: “The visit is a great way for businesses to do some in-depth research and meet potential customers and partners.

“Eligible SMEs will receive a financial contribution towards the cost of flights and accommodation, as well as receiving the full support of an International Trade Adviser prior to, during and after the visit.”

For more information, call the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email: enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .