International Trade Week 2024
International Trade Week 2024 is here, offering a fantastic opportunity for those of us in the West Midlands to explore the global stage. Running from November 11-15, this week offers local businesses the resources, insights, and connections they need to go global, with events tailored to the strengths and ambitions of our region.
What’s International Trade Week?
International Trade Week (ITW) was launched in 2021 to help UK businesses of all sizes take on new global opportunities. This year, it’s bigger than ever, with a clear focus on making international growth accessible to every business owner, entrepreneur, and innovator in the UK. ITW 2024 will feature a range of free events, workshops, and webinars designed to simplify the steps toward exporting, highlight government support, and connect businesses with seasoned trade experts.
International trade in the West Midlands
The West Midlands is known for its manufacturing might and innovative spirit, contributing around £27 billion in exports as of 2022. Key markets for the region include the EU, the US, and Asia, and there is strong demand for products from industries like automotive and advanced manufacturing. Expanding our reach through initiatives like International Trade Week is not only good for individual businesses but also strengthens our entire regional economy. The government has set a target of reaching £1 trillion in exports by 2030, and the West Midlands will undoubtedly play a key role in reaching that ambitious goal
Getting Involved
International Trade Week offers a unique chance for West Midlands businesses to connect with the UK Export Academy, a free, tailored program that provides online courses, webinars, and workshops for companies looking to expand internationally. This program can be especially helpful for small and medium-sized enterprises that might not have a dedicated export team or the resources to navigate international markets on their own.
Birmingham and Solihull Export Support Programme (BASESP) is an initiative funded by the UK government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Birmingham and Solihull expand their international trade capabilities.
International Trade Support for Sandwell Businesses is an initiative that assists Sandwell-based companies in exploring and expanding their presence in global markets. This program, provided by Sandwell Council in partnership with Business Growth West Midlands and Falsum Consulting Ltd, offers specialised support in the form of one-on-one trade advisory, workshops, and resources to streamline international trade activities.
Key Events in the West Midlands
For those of us based in the West Midlands, there are events tailored specifically to our regional industries and business landscape. The UK Government's Department for Business and Trade, working in partnership with Dudley Council, are hosting Made in Dudley Borough, Sold to the World. This roadshow is part of a special series of events taking place across the country and an opportunity to receive guidance from trade experts and government officials about the tools and processes, initiatives, and free support on offer to drive your company’s export potential.
Alternatively, one of the highlights is the "Made in the Midlands, Sold to the World Roadshow," happening on November 12 at the Rolls-Royce Flight Operations Centre near East Midlands Airport. This roadshow is an ideal opportunity for local businesses, especially those in manufacturing, automotive, and engineering to learn more about international trade and get hands-on support from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and local experts. The event will cover essential topics such as financing exports, finding global customers, and understanding key markets, all while showcasing success stories from businesses right here in the West Midlands.
For more details on free events, workshops, and webinars happening nationwide, explore the links below:
• UK-ASEAN Business Council
• Department for Business and Trade Events
Ready to Go Global?
If you’re in the West Midlands and ready to explore what the world has to offer, International Trade Week 2024 is a fantastic starting point. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and get inspired about the potential of taking our region’s talent and innovation worldwide. For more information on exporting for your business, visit great.gov.uk.
