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34 . Glasgow Business December 2014


GLOBAL SUCCESS Follow the route to


Too few export for fear of the unknown. But, with support, businesses could get the chance to unlock a healthy slice of the international trade market


G


lasgow is an economic powerhouse with a wide range of trades, but there are not


enough businesses trading internationally. According to Glasgow Chamber


of Commerce, the city has only experienced 2.8 per cent growth in exports, which is, as Chief Executive Stuart Patrick said at a recent International Trade Event, “not as high as we would like”. So Glasgow Chamber has


launched a campaign to grow international trade performance in a bid to double the amount of exports leaving Glasgow for overseas markets. With the world’s global


economy peaking at $74 trillion (at the end of 2013), and economic


cycles changing for the beter, it’s surprising that more Glasgow businesses are not rushing to take a slice of this. Yes, Glasgow businesses are enjoying some exporting successes abroad, but almost half (44 per cent) of all goods shipped or flown out of the UK are exported to Europe. Tis means we are ignoring the


US and China – the two biggest economies in the world. However, there are reasons why


Glasgow businesses are not trading beyond their European neighbours – and are, therefore, ignoring the emerging markets where, in some countries, economic activity is experiencing a rapid growth. Allan Porter, Director of


Searoute Group Limited, one of the UK’s leading shipping agents


providing port agency services in Europe and globally, believes many exporters are still put off by the numerous processes and regulations. He explained: “Take the US, for


example, our strongest trading partner outwith the EU. Many US buyers still demand the goods are shipped direct to their door with US duties and taxes paid by the exporter. A turn off straight away for a small or novice exporter, but it really should not be. “Tat is what an experienced


and reliable shipping agent does. So my advice is don’t be put off, simply call in a shipping agent and they will prepare a plan and a quotation that will meet with the buyers’ exact requirements.” Another reason for being put off


exporting is the ‘fear factor’, according to Sue Wright of Exporter Services. She added: “Risk-averse


directors who have been in the business for a long time don’t think it is necessary [to trade internationally]. One thing about Scotland is that food and drink seems to always take centre stage. Tere are some fabulous manufacturers tucked away with litle recognition. Why aren’t we shouting from the rooſtops about them too? “Tere are always scare stories


to put businesses off. However, by raising awareness through support, businesses can successfully export and increase their profit.” Tere is also an assumption that sending goods abroad to overseas


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