Cheshire firms seek deals in Africa and the Middle East

A CHEADLE security firm that operates in Iraq is among 200 British firms in Dubai seeking business opportunities across the Middle East and North Africa.

Consilium Risk Strategies (CRS), joined by Nantwich-based construction manufacturer Trimo, will meet trade experts from more than 18 markets from Algeria to Kuwait and Syria to Saudi Arabia. 

CRS director Ian Hearne said: “Iraq is emerging as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and for those that can see past the challenges of working in a post-conflict environment there are a vast array of investment opportunities.

“CRS has been established in Iraq since 2003 and in 2008 became the first in the industry to open a fully equipped business centre in Baghdad. We have recently opened a second business centre in Basra and are attending the ‘Britain in the Region’ conference to continue spreading the word that Iraq is open for business.”

UK Trade & Investment chief executive Sir Andrew Cahn said: “Britain in the Region is taking place on the eve of an historic event – the first State visit to the UAE in more than 30 years. This visit will help strengthen our already close ties with the region.

“The Middle East and North African markets offer huge opportunity and promise for British business. Last year exports to the region were worth nearly £21bn. I hope each and every company attending Britain in the Region can find new markets, new opportunities or business partnerships to boost export orders.”