INTERNATIONAL trade plays a key part in the region’s economic success and there is no doubt that the £10bnworth of goods and services exported from the North-East last year is making a significant contribution to the regional economy.

By not relying on a single market for growth, companies that export are more resilient in challenging times. Exporting can increase a firm’s productivity by 30 per cent in the first year, and by competing against the best in the world, firms become more innovative and competitive.

But another benefit of exporting is that it helps to promote the North-East as a good place to do business with and that can encourage inward trade, helping overseas businesses make the decision to expand and develop their operations in the region.

The UK is already an attractive destination for inward investment – according to Ernst and Young, in 2009-10 the UK attracted the most company investments in Europe.

The strong export tradition that exists in the North-East provides a vital source of talent and expertise for overseas buyers.

The connections already developed between the region and traditionally strong markets such as the US and Europe, and the international transport links provided by our airports, sea ports, and rail network, make the region an excellent springboard for businesses which want to grow their international trade with these markets.

Another key attraction for overseas businesses is the number of companies in the North-East that 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.

More than a third of the UK’s £6bn pharmaceutical industry is based in the North-East. It also has a particular strength in the oil and gas sector. And in the low-carbon sector, the region is quickly establishing a reputation for world-class technology and innovation.

Having a strong international trade with overseas businesses, both to and from the region, is not only good for individual firms, it is good for the economy and good for jobs.

Call 0845-05-05-054 or email enquiries @ukti.rito.co.uk

■ David Coppock is UK Trade and Investment’s international trade director.