International trade is a subject that is quite rightly focusing the minds of politicians and the business community following our recent departure from the EU.
While the Government continues its global trade talks, Inverness Chamber of Commerce is working to secure new opportunities for Highland companies in Europe and in Canada, with a series of business missions starting next month.
Inverness Chamber will lead a delegation on a three-day visit to Munich in April, following the success of a previous mission to Germany, and in May we will take part in a number of events over four days in Toronto.
Spaces are available on both trips, which are open to any Scottish company, from any sector and of any size. There is no requirement to be a chamber member. For more information contact international@inverness-chamber.co.uk
These trade missions, to build on existing relationships and explore new partnerships in German and Canadian markets, have become increasingly important given the uncertainty over the UK’s future trading with the EU and elsewhere in the world.
In the current climate, it is vital we seek new market openings for Highland companies, for the good of individual firms and for the region. The turmoil over Brexit and the ongoing uncertainty it has left behind means there are plenty of issues to face, such as export sales, the retaining and recruiting of staff, lack of investment and an inability to plan ahead. But there are also opportunities.
The Munich trip will have particular emphasis on food & drink, creative industries, energy, professional and business services and financial services. Working with Munich Chamber of Commerce and a consultant we used previously during a trip to Augsburg in 2017, the itinerary will include one-to-one business meetings and the chance to make presentations to local chamber members.
In Toronto, we will partner with the local chamber of commerce to arrange lunch presentations and match companies working in areas including food and drink, business services and IT.
Canada is a very popular market for Scottish and UK firms. The Canadian way of doing business is quite similar to the UK which makes it attractive. It is also seen as a gateway into US markets which can be even more lucrative.
As well as Canadian organisations, Inverness Chamber is working with other agencies to arrange the visit, including Scottish Development International, the Department for International Trade and GlobalScot, a worldwide network of entrepreneurial business leaders who provide support to Scotland’s most ambitious companies, including advice on preparing for new markets, finding customers and identifying potential partners and suppliers.
Inverness chamber’s international team is highly regarded nationally and internationally for its ability to support and advise businesses in this complex environment. These visits are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure individuals and companies of all sizes have the knowledge, training and support they need to do business abroad.