International Trade Week 2024 helps businesses to go global

The fourth International Trade Week from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) is open for UK businesses to join five days of free events, workshops and webinars that will help them unlock global opportunities.   

The week is free for companies of all sizes and sectors to attend, whether looking to secure their first export contract or expand existing international sales.   

Sponsored by Santander UK and in partnership with industry, the week will run from today to Friday 15th November 2024. Companies can develop their exporting knowledge and skills, speak to experts in international trade, and understand how they can benefit from trade deals the UK has signed. They will also be able to hear from ‘Export Champions’ – leaders from UK businesses who are seasoned international traders - to help inspire others to explore global opportunities.   

Santander UK’s latest Trade Barometer report, published to coincide with ITW, shows that while businesses remain cautious given economic pressures, 36 per cent feel ‘very confident about trading internationally’ – up from 22% last year. More than half say international trade is of increasing importance to mitigate economic challenges, and 58 per cent of exporting businesses expect a quarter or more of their revenue to come from trading internationally in the next 12 months. In addition, the proportion that see growth opportunities in European markets over the next 12 months has also increased – in Germany from 20% to 23%, and in France from 15% to 19%.   

Gareth Thomas, Minister for Exports, said: "Opportunities exist around the world for UK businesses – from our closest neighbours in Europe to some of the fastest growing markets on the other side of the globe. "

During this year’s ITW, the Minister for Exports will announce the latest developments of DBT’s export support including: 

Today also sees the launch of the government's Autumn 2024 Trade Barometer research showing more than half of UK SMEs feel international trade is becoming more important to them than ever.

Last year, 3,225 businesses signed up – the biggest International Trade Week yet. Businesses can register to attend this year here, and will then be able to join as many free ITW events as they wish. These include:   

• Global Connections: export to Europe (retail and consumer)   
• Winning with Europe’s biggest home improvement marketplace   
• Expanding Horizons: How UK Businesses Can Scale globally with Amazon  
• Deciding your pricing strategy and routes to market for overseas sales   
• How to grow your business in India: practical steps  
• Retail opportunities in the US   
• Exporting to Eastern Europe and Central Asia Markets   
• Understand consumer behaviour in Saudi Arabia and the UAE  
• Expanding Horizons: the skills you need for international growth