AS this year draws to a close, now is a good time to reflect on what has without doubt been a difficult year and look ahead to consider what the new year has in store.

Few of us have not felt the impact of the economic downturn and it certainly had a significant impact on the North-East economy.

But while it did lead to a fall in exports, the total annual value of goods exported from the region still stands at more than £10bn.

Our international trade performance is something we can be proud of and yet, for all our achievements in the global marketplace, the actual number of companies that export is still small.

And as the new year begins, I want to throw down the gauntlet to challenge businesses to make next year the year to “take it to the world”.

Companies need to prepare themselves, so they are ready to take advantage of the opportunities as we come out of the economic downturn and the time is now right to take those all important first steps into a new market.

The North-East’s strong industrial heritage is providing a platform for a renaissance in the economy and we are leading the way in some of the world’s fastest growing sectors – energy and low-carbon technology, chemicals, automotive, healthcare and life sciences, to name just a few.

International trade is a key element of the region’s economic success and it’s been proven time and again that companies that export are more resilient.

Our challenge is to ensure that businesses know that help is at hand to those wanting to navigate their way out of the recession by seeking out business opportunities overseas.

Last year, more than 300 North-East companies took advantage of the support UK Trade and Investment offers and nationally UK Trade and Investment helped 20,700 companies generate an estimated £3.6bn of additional profits.

So whether you are new to exporting or a seasoned veteran, get in touch to find out how we can help you “take it to the world”

in 2010.

For more information about the range of support services available through UK Trade and Investment contact the North- East International Trade Hotline on 0845 - 050-5054 or email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk ■ David Coppock, is the international trade director, at UK Trade and Investmen