Firms praised as West Midland exports reach record levels

FIRMS in the West Midlands have been congratulated for helping push the region’s exports to a record high of £21.4bn during the last quarter.

Latest figures released by HM Revenue & Customs show that the largest percentage increase in exports for the English regions was in the West Midlands, where exports increased by 6.1%  during the year – up by £1,240m from 2011.

Paul Noon, Regional Director for UKTI West Midlands, said: “The export figures for the West Midlands are fantastic – particularly in Asia, Oceania, Middle East and North Africa. The region’s success is testament to all the hard work and courage shown by local firms who are branching out into new markets.

“But many more local companies can enjoy this success. The region’s exports to the EU have shown a dip which reflects the slow-down in the economies of Europe. This means the need to look further afield is even greater if we are to achieve the necessary levels of growth. There are countless opportunities around the world that play to the strengths of the many innovative, manufacturers we have in this region.”

The trade agency is keen that more firms follow the example and develop their export strategies. To help, UKTI is hosting a special Export Week – High Growth Markets campaign in May.  

The week (May 13-17) is to be the first of two export weeks in 2013 designed to give local businesses specific access to support and events to crack high growth markets such as Brazil, Russia, India, China and Qatar.

“Export Week in May is about showing firms how they can access these high growth markets, providing companies with the information and support they need to succeed overseas,” said Mr Noon.

Events taking place in the West Midlands for Export Week include:
•    Doing Business in Singapore
•    High Growth Markets, the Bribery Act and Intellectual Property
•    British American Business Council Annual Conference
•    High Value Opportunities for Mid-Sized Business
•    Russian Aerospace

Full details of the events taking place in Export Week are available at: www.exportweek.ukti.gov.uk/full/

A second Export Week will take place in November.