An MP-led inquiry has been launched into the export opportunities and obstacles affecting UK businesses.
The International Trade Committee has called for written evidence submissions from companies which examine the current situation for exporters, the support offered by the Government and how easily firms can access it.
Over the course of the inquiry, the cross-party Committee will investigate the key barriers preventing businesses from exporting, how these can be addressed, and whether the Government could provide additional support.
It will also compare the UK’s support with other countries and explore whether free trade agreements provide new opportunities, how businesses can access them, and whether extra support or guidance is needed.
The MPs will analyse the effectiveness of the Government’s initiatives for supporting exporters, including the ‘GREAT’ campaign, Export Academy, and Clean Growth Export Programme.
They will consider the work of the Government’s International Trade Advisers, UK Export Finance, and teams based in UK Embassies abroad.
Chair of the International Trade Committee Angus Brendan MacNeil MP said: “Businesses up and down the UK are desperate to sell their wares overseas, but many report overly bureaucratic processes at a time when even the slightest increase in costs or delays can cause serious difficulties.
“That’s why we’re launching an investigation into the current situation for exporters, the support offered by the Government, how easily exporters can access it, and whether the UK can learn anything from our international peers.
“We would encourage those with knowledge of this important area to submit evidence to our inquiry.”
