Businesses urged to make the most of extensive overseas trade programme

Business Minister Edwina Hart is encouraging companies to take advantage of the Welsh Government supported autumn overseas trade mission programme which gets underway this month.

The Minister said: “International trade is a priority for the Welsh Government and supporting Welsh companies to explore trade opportunities in new markets is more important than ever during the current economic climate.

“We know there are on-going problems in the Eurozone but there are still major opportunities across the sectors in parts of Europe and other countries around the globe and the Welsh Government is here to support businesses.

“We have drawn up an extensive programme targeting key sectors and strategic events that offer the best opportunities for Welsh businesses. Officials are working closely with UKT&I both here and overseas and we are joining forces at events in China and Saudi Arabia in the coming months.

“The Welsh Government can offer a support package for companies to participate in the trade mission to ensure they are able to make the most of potential business opportunities and I hope they take advantage of the expertise available.”

The first mission flies out on Sunday 16th September to Washington DC with some companies travelling on to Boston.  In Washington there will be an event with Fairfax County, Virginia, home to major US companies including Hilton Worldwide and General Dynamics.

The second Welsh Government mission will be to Qatar and Dubai in the UAE.  The mission will leave on 29th September to Qatar and then move on to Dubai.