AN ORGANISATION which opens foreign markets to North-East companies has set its sights on Singapore.

Trade Partners UK is offering the region's firms the chance to secure a roaring trade in what has been dubbed "Lion City".

Singapore, one of the UK's largest export markets outside Europe, is the destination for the latest trade mission organised by Trade Missions North East.

UK exports to Singapore topped £1.5bn last year, more than to any other country in the Asia-Pacific region, and more than 700 British companies are represented there.

Its strategic location, first-class infrastructure and use of the English language and legal system make it a popular location for British businesses and the trade mission, in October, plans to help North-East firms tap into this lucrative market.

The mission to Singapore will leave on October 3.

For more information, or to reserve a place, contact Joan Bowley, Trade Missions North East coordinator, on (01642) 341403 before Monday, July 14.