Only around one in very ten Merseyside small and medium size companies is successfully trading overseas. However, there are UK government and European incentives designed to help businesses take this step.

If your company is considering trading internationally for the first time, or looking to expand into additional overseas markets, the International Trade Centre in Old Hall Street can provide free or subsidised assistance.

Mark Critchley, Liverpool Chamber’s International Trade Executive said: “Many companies ask similar questions about the best overseas markets for their products and services, how to make a sale and setting up contractual arrangements when they do. We can help with all this guidance. We are also experts in helping you understand the business culture and overcome any language barriers.”

Mark continued: “Unfortunately some people only approach us when something has gone wrong rather than at the start of the process. One Liverpool company was successfully exporting food until his distributor suddenly stopped paying him. If he’d spoken us before he had problems, we could have helped him to identify and minimise the risks involved.”

If you are a Merseyside company with under 250 employees and you would like advice on expanding into new markets, come along to the International Trade Clinics on Friday 14th September.

The centre will reserve a free 1-2-1 meeting with specialists on a number of key countries worldwide, and gain new contacts and information for you, broadcast a free Euro Info Centre business offer or request for partners in any of 40 countries across the European continent and beyond, and help you seek advice on specific international trade issues you are facing.

Please email mark.critchley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk or call us on 0151 227 1234 and ask for more information about International Trade Clinics.