With just a week to go before the inaugural Import Export Show throws open its doors, the Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) is delighted to announce three high-profile keynote political speakers.
Baroness Neville-Rolfe DBE CMG
With the government’s announcement of detailed plans for its new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) this summer, IOE&IT is pleased to welcome cabinet office minister Baroness Neville-Rolfe DBE CMG to the show to discuss BTOM and its implementation over the coming months and years.
IOE&IT director general, Marco Forgione, said BTOM is clearly on the minds of those who trade internationally and that attendees would welcome the chance to hear from the minister. He added:
"Like many other sectors, the global trade landscape has experienced monumental shifts in recent times, not to mention the significant legislative developments such as the UK’s accession to the CPTPP and the new BTOM which took place over the summer.
“The next 18 months will prove to be pivotal for UK businesses trading internationally and will be transformational.
“It is important that we make the most of the opportunity to come together to discuss and explore some of the most pressing challenges these businesses face as well as provide an open platform for innovation and collaboration on how to navigate the way forward and continue to drive business success.”
Kevin Hollinrake MP
With the afternoon session largely dedicated to hearing export stories from entrepreneurs and small businesses, it is fitting that the show will be addressed by Kevin Hollinrake MP, minister for enterprise, markets and small business.
Hollinrake came into politics after a career in business, having been founder partner of Hunters Estate Agents, which he helped to grow into one of the largest independent chains of estate agents in the UK.
Afzal Khan MP
Afzal Khan MP, Labour’s shadow minister for exports, will be giving the closing keynote of the day. Khan entered Parliament in 2017 as MP for Manchester Gorton. He’s served in several shadow ministerial positions, including shadow minister for immigration, shadow foreign office minister and shadow deputy leader of the House of Commons.
IOE&IT thoughts
Grace Thompson, IOE&IT's UK public affairs lead, commented:
"At an event such as the Import Export Show, it’s highly valuable to have representation from both the Business and Trade ministerial team, and the shadow ministerial team, in attendance.
"Businesses will be eager to hear the perspectives of both enterprise, markets and small business minister, Kevin Hollinrake, and shadow exports minister, Afzal Khan, on the current state of international trade, challenges we are facing and potential policy solutions for the future.
"While Baroness Neville-Rolfe will provide a valuable targeted focus on the BTOM in her speech, I expect that Hollinrake and Khan will give useful broader-brush perspectives on wider issues affecting small business exporters in the UK today."
Event
Held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City on Wednesday 15 November, the Import Export Show is a new event on the trade calendar, providing the global trade community with an opportunity to network with and hear from industry leaders, as well as leading political figures, on the most pressing issues facing those engaged in international trade.
Tickets for the show are still available here.