54 INTERNATIONAL TRADE
BUILDING TRADE ON STRONG FOUNDATIONS
Chris Barton started in his role as HM Trade Commissioner for Europe in August last year.
Previously acting director general of trade negotiations at the Department for International Trade (DIT) he now leads a team based in 34 countries, working hard to encourage trade and investment between the UK and Europe.
Other parts of his role include championing the rules-based international trading system with Europe.
Europe still accounts for half of UK exports and is its largest source of inward investment.
And Chris believes ratification of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, alongside new free trade agreements with other European countries, provides “a strong basis for further opportunities”.
He talks about building on “these firm foundations” and adds: “It is a fantastic time to be in this role, there is so much opportunity.
“The last couple of years have been fraught with Covid and getting use to the new rules.
“The deal that we have with the EU gives us the basis for strong trade. Of course, it’s not the same as it was. Companies are having to address new rules, but the evidence is that on the whole businesses are adapting really well. Business finds a way of doing things
“I really believe there are strong prospects for the future. There is strong government support and a really positive story to tell.”
The UK’s trade commissioner is also bullish when it comes to Lancashire’s prospects. He believes the county is well placed to win more European business with its strong aerospace, advanced manufacturing and food production sectors.
He points to a range of county businesses that are already active in Europe, from the big players like Rolls Royce and British Aerospace, to Fylde coast biscuit manufacturers Burton’s and Fox’s as well as Preston- based Beech’s Fine Chocolates.
Companies are having to address new rules, but the evidence is that on the whole businesses are adapting really well
Then there is the inward investment coming into Lancashire from Europe, such as the AB InBev brewery in Samlesbury which received a £45m, job- creating boost from its parent business last year.
Chris adds: “It is interesting, when I talk to businesses around Europe, and I’ve been to 27 different countries over the last few months, the vast majority are not really interested in going too much into the Brexit question. They are interested in exploiting the opportunities that are there.”
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