Our Director General Lesley Batchelor is at the forefront of urging SMEs to take part in this year’s International Trade Survey.
The survey, sponsored by American Insurance Group (AIG) and supported by The Institute of Export, is the ideal opportunity for businesses to have their say about international trade.
Trade and Export Finance Limited (TAEFL) conduct the survey and will be contacting over 40,000 companies which trade overseas. The findings will be presented to government agencies and banks after the results are revealed in May.
Now in its eighteenth year, the survey is regarded as one of the most authoritative studies of exporting practice amongst the UK’s SME community.
Lesley Batchelor says: “The importance of this survey cannot be underestimated as it’s one of the only truly independent research projects talking to those trading internationally. Last year alone, the survey helped to form government opinion at the All Parliamentary Group for International Trade and Investment, Cabinet Office briefings, Business Secretary Vince Cable’s office and the Entrepreneur Group, along with press and media activity.
“It’s a great opportunity for smaller businesses not necessarily affiliated with a trade association to be heard. We are proud to be able to support this survey and the vital intelligence it provides for the industry that supports international trade.”
Key topics this year’s survey will be focusing on are:
- Government initiatives for exporters
- The EU referendum
- The support given to SMEs by banks
- UKTI and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office working more closely together
- Business prospects for 2014
Will Clark, Head of Trade Credit UK at AIG, adds: “This survey is an important piece of research that seeks to understand the needs, risks and challenges of exporters and international businesses, together with the key role they play in helping to shape the economy.
“If the economy is to recover, much faith has been placed in businesses to bear the heavy load. AIG believes that the survey’s insights will help to highlight issues faced and assist these businesses to trade more effectively.”
Last year’s results were unveiled at the inaugural GTR Exporta UK Trade & Export Finance Conference attended by 250 senior decision makers from the corporate, financial and government sectors.
High on the agenda were government growth target, current corporate forecasts, emerging markets and Eurozone issues.
If you would like to complete the survey online, please click here http://bit.ly/1aB96d9 or alternatively you can email survey@taefl.co.uk to request a copy of the questionnaire.
Visit our website for more information on the IOE’s business membership, training and qualifications or contact us if you have any questions.