Small exporters from the North East of England are set to engage with buyers representing 19 international markets during an upcoming government export initiative, commencing this Thursday in Blyth, Northumberland.

The event, dubbed “Made in the UK, Sold to the World,” marks the first of eight planned roadshows across the UK, with additional locations including Belfast, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Cardiff.

At the Blyth event, around 97 buyers from countries such as South Korea, Mexico, India, Poland, and Germany are expected to attend, primarily listening to presentations from firms focused on clean energy. The event will also feature 30 commercial officers from UK embassies and consulates, who will offer complimentary guidance and networking opportunities.

Gareth Thomas, the minister for services, small businesses, and exports, remarked, “Through these roadshows, the government aims to support vital growth sectors, facilitating faster and easier connections for small businesses to explore export opportunities and expand their reach.”

Each roadshow is centered around a specific industry, with the inaugural event spotlighting clean energy. Upcoming themes will explore advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and financial services.

Alex Marshall, group business development director at Clarke Energy, which specializes in gas-powered generators, is among the attendees. As an export champion for the government, he noted that the event serves as an excellent platform for discussing emerging international trends and export opportunities within the clean energy sector.

The roadshows will feature workshops and seminars covering topics such as market research and access routes, facilitated by the UK Export Academy, which is supported by government funding.

A recent study conducted by the Department for Business & Trade, involving 3,000 businesses with revenues exceeding £500,000, revealed that only 18 percent deemed themselves experts in exporting in the previous year, a decrease from 24 percent the year prior.

Exporters interested in participating in future roadshows are encouraged to register their interest for upcoming events.