Partner Article

UK trade figures jump

UK exports in November jumped to the highest in 13 months, official figures have shown.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) exports rose to £20.2bn, the most since October 2008. The rise was mostly driven by sales of consumer goods and chemicals, the ONS said.

As a result, the UK’s trade deficit with the rest of the world has narrowed to £6.78bn, from £7.02bn in October 2009.

Jonathan Walker, policy adviser at the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) said: “The figures demonstrate a welcome improvement in UK exports which is good news, but progress is not being made as quickly as it could be.

“It is essential that the Government gives businesses the support they need to take advantage of the favourable market conditions, such as the low value of Sterling, if they are to realise the full potential of the export market.

“Through its Go Global campaign NECC has been encouraging the region’s businesses to look more readily to trade abroad, and the number of successful businesses featured in the campaign demonstrates the tremendous trade opportunities that exist despite the global recession.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .