Scottish companies challenged to explore Europe

Over 130 companies attended an international trade event organised by Scottish Development International (SDI), in partnership with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) in Edinburgh yesterday (Wednesday 30th November). The event was aimed at helping Scottish companies target new opportunities in European markets.

Part of the Smart Exporter programme, Export Europe: Opportunities on your doorstep, focused on giving companies the chance to learn more about the potential for their products or services in key European markets.

Speaking at the opening of the event, chief executive of Scottish Development International, Anne MacColl said: “There are opportunities for Scottish companies across all sectors in Europe. As the largest market of UK goods and services, an estimated £9.6 billion of all Scottish exports are destined for the EU so it’s vital that we to continue to build trade links there.

“In the current economic uncertainty, exporting is one of the key ways in which companies can continue to develop their operations. Many companies already have a foothold in Europe and this event aims to help them learn about other markets both within and outwith the Eurozone.

“Clearly there are real challenges in the European market - but we know that opportunities do still exist. Russia for example, is undergoing significant economic reform and offers huge potential for Scottish companies. Current exports to Russia stand at £170 million, representing 0.8 per cent of Scottish exports and we’re confident that we can help increase this figure. This event will ensure that companies know where the future opportunities in Europe lie and how they can tap into them."

During the event companies heard from a range of speakers including John Rendall, chief executive for HSBC in Scotland and Yuri Andreev, SDI market manager for Russia, who shared their insights into how to trade successfully in Europe.

Companies were also able to join market seminars and one-to-one meetings with SDI and UKTI commercial officers, and access free export support services from SDI’s Smart Exporter programme, while sharing experiences with like-minded businesses.

Markets that were highlighted at the event included Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain and Switzerland.