THE region’s great and good turned out last week to celebrate the achievements of the companies spearheading the North East’s overseas trade effort, writes James Ramsbotham.

The North East Exporter of the Year Awards proved to be another fantastic event with a host of worthy winners and some incredibly unlucky runners-up, many of whom missed out on the top awards by a hair’s breadth.

Last week was Export Week and I spoke about the need to recognise the North East’s prowess in the field of exports, but also of the need to encourage more companies to explore foreign markets and I make no apologies for covering similar topics once again.

An NECC study published this week shows that 35% of North East companies currently export goods, compared to 39% nationally. Popular markets are the EU (89%), Asia (57%) and the Middle East (53%).

There were many more interesting stats thrown up, but what this particular data proves is that while we are the only region in the country with a positive balance of export trade, we must get more companies exporting if we are to continue our impressive performance.

We have a relatively small number of high-volume exporters and we must do more to encourage more SMEs to sell abroad.

A successful economic recovery will have to rely heavily on export markets. Regional companies have massive untapped potential to expand, but it is vital that the right support is available to help them compete globally and break into new markets.

It is important that businesses have access to local knowledge on the ground that can deliver practical contacts, potential partners, real customers and supply chains.

NECC and our partners who deliver the UKTI regional service do just that, but to fully meet the scale of the economic challenge, funding for the development of SME exporters and in-market support should be increased in the government’s upcoming Spending Review.

Our International team is incredibly successful at providing export guidance and documentation support, which is available to all companies, and ensuring that the positive experience of companies that have made the leap into these markets are shared with those about to make that leap.

Businesses must be ready to seize upon the opportunities of global trade. There is literally a world of opportunity out there for North East businesses to exploit.

I would encourage anyone considering taking that first step into exports to do it. They are limited only by the extent of their ambition.