Export survey underpins North East international trade support activities

Around 1800 North East businesses are being invited to participate in a major North East research survey designed to help tailor local services to support international business development.

Companies are being contacted by Aberdeen City Council, on behalf of Business Gateway International (BGI), to take part in the 2006 Export Survey, the eighth to be carried out in North East Scotland.

The export survey is designed to identify the international markets in which North East businesses are currently most active, as well as new markets targeted for future development.  It also identifies any problems encountered by businesses in their exporting activity, and any key areas of support they require.

The results enable BGI to provide information that is directly relevant to respondent companies’ international development plans, and then tailor its export support services to meet their specific needs.

Largest survey of its type

Over 600 companies responded to the last survey undertaken in 2004 (making this the most comprehensive export survey of its type in Scotland), when the top markets identified for development were Libya, Russia, UAE and Kazakhstan.

Rita Stephen, chair of Business Gateway International, and head of economic development at Aberdeen City Council said: “This survey provides extremely valuable information about international business development activities in the North East.

“The findings allow us to monitor export trends and focus on key and emerging markets of specific relevance to our local businesses’ skills and products.  In turn, this enables us to tailor our services to support local requirements.

“World trade dynamics are ever-changing, and recent events such as the enlargement of the European Union have a direct impact on opportunities for our businesses.  It is vital that we are well placed to assist them in exploiting these areas.”

Business Gateway International members include Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, Scottish Enterprise Grampian, Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce, Scottish Development International and the Scottish Enterprise Energy Team.

If your company is based in North East Scotland and would like to participate in the Export Survey, click here to download a copy.