If you are looking to embark on your journey to trade internationally, or need support with entering new markets or grow your international footprint, please get in touch with Ilona to discuss further.

WTO Public Forum 2024

The World Trade Organisation (WTO) 2024 Public Forum will delve into the pivotal role of re-globalisation in fostering inclusive trade, ensuring broader access to its benefits.

Expressions of interest are now being sought for participation in an ICC-led delegation. If you're interested in joining this delegation, please click here. 

For those interested in organising working sessions at the Public Forum, applications must be completed by Friday 14 June.

Individuals intending to attend the Forum are requested to register by Friday 23 August.

Last week, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) took part in the first meeting of the government’s new Critical Imports Council, providing advice on implementing a strategy around supply chain security and diversification, and imports in sectors of national importance like chemicals, medicines and energy.

The BCC Director General and the BCC team had a very worthwhile discussion with the Japanese Ambassador last week at his residence, focusing on opportunities arising from UK entry to CPTPP, raising bilateral trade and investment, and Expo 2025 in Osaka.

The BCC met Shadow Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP at Westminster last week, to discuss a range of key trade issues for members such as Labour’s proposed White Paper on Trade, relations with the US, China, India, the EU, and trader support services and future Network delivery and outputs in these areas.

The BCC joined other business groups and the UK accreditation service (UKAS) to discuss prospects for a mutual recognition agreement on conformity assessment with the EU to help manufacturers and other traders, and plans for furthering this campaign.

The BCC also met with the Australian High Commission to consider how the first year of the UK-Australia free trade agreement has worked for traders in both countries, and outstanding issues for further discussion.

The European Commission published proposals last Thursday for a youth mobility agreement with the UK, which we know is a regularly stated priority for members. We are evaluating the proposals and will engage further with members in the relevant policy groups.

You can view the full list of all our training courses for 2024 on the Chamber website.

Courses can also be tailored to meet your company’s specific requirements. For more information about a bespoke course for your company, which can be delivered remotely or in person, please contact the Chamber on 01223 237414.

This full day conference will be an opportunity for business leaders from across the UK, and the globe, to come together to discuss the key challenges to build a better future for business, the economy, and people in our local communities.

The conference will be centred around five key breakout sessions:

• People and Work
  
• Global Britain
  
• Digital Revolution
  
• Green Innovation
  
• Local Economy of the Future.

Confirmed speakers:

• Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England
• Amanda Blanc DBE, Group CEO at Aviva
• Lady Nicola Mendelsohn CBE, Head of Global Business Group at Meta.

Away from the sessions, the Networking Zone is an opportunity for delegates to meet existing and new contacts; and the exhibition stands will see the best of British business, and the Chamber Network, from across the UK and around the world showcasing their work.