TWO out of five firms which export goods or services are looking to hire more staff amid improving confidence, according to a new report.

A survey of 2,600 companies by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and DHL Express found that 71% expected their turnover to improve in the coming months.

The report said more support was needed if a Government target of increasing exports by £1 trillion by 2020 is to be met.

John Longworth, director general of the BCC, said: "Our exporters are selling more, and hiring more, showing ambition and willingness to export and grow their business.

"They are taking advantage of the opportunities on offer when breaking into new markets and it is great to see that the volume of exports is now at an all time high."

Phil Couchman, chief executive of DHL Express, added: "The Government's increasing support for exporters, such as the new export credit scheme, means that British businesses are slowly being equipped with the tools they need to capitalise on the benefits of growing their business abroad.

"Looking to new markets remains key for growth.

The Chancellor's recent trade trip to Brazil to build business relationships shows that this is a market with significant opportunities for businesses.

"The upcoming 2014 Fifa World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games also demonstrate a huge investment in this territory's infrastructure."