Export growth for Yorkshire and Humber
REGIONAL export statistics show that Yorkshire and the Humber remains the only northern region in England to show year-on-year export growth.
The trade in goods statistics released yesterday by HM Revenue & Customs reveal that total exports for the region were worth £4.34bn for the third quarter of 2013 (July to September), up from £4.14bn for the same period last year. In both the North East and North West, export values for Q3 have decreased compared to Q3 2012.
The total regional export values for January to September 2013 were £13bn, up from £12.2bn for the same period last year.
Although the figures reveal an overall drop in export values for Yorkshire and the Humber compared to Q2 (April to June 2013), UKTI regional director Mark Robson said he believes the overall trend for the region is encouraging.
The biggest quarterly increase in regional exports were to the European Union (up to £2.2bn compared to £2.14bn in Q2), and to Latin America and the Caribbean, which were worth £192m against £148m in Q2. Exports to Eastern Europe have also seen a steady rise since the beginning of the year, with a current value of £86m.
However, falls were recorded in some areas including North America, Asia and Oceania and the Middle East.
Mr Robson said: “Although the region has experienced mixed fortunes this quarter, it is encouraging to see that we are holding our own and are one of only four English regions – and the only one in the north – to have enjoyed export growth.
“It is clear that, despite some uncertainty, local businesses are making the most of the international opportunities available, particularly in established markets like the EU and emerging economies such as Eastern Europe and Latin America.
“The region has so much to offer and I am confident that our businesses will continue to seize on export opportunities and fulfil their global potential.”
The statistics show that machinery and transport equipment, mineral fuels and chemicals remain the key export commodities for Yorkshire and the Humber, with America, France and Germany our top three export partners.
