Responding to the full publication of the Department for International Trade’s Export Strategy, Allie Renison, Head of Europe and Trade Policy at the Institute of Directors, said:

“The launch of the Government’s Export Strategy today marks the beginning of a new chapter in UK trade.

“This Strategy is a strong first step towards a long-term, practical and targeted approach to boosting UK exports. The Government has clearly listened to business representative groups like the IoD in focusing on areas where it can make a difference and not seeking to duplicate the role of the private sector.

“We are pleased to see DIT has incorporated a number of the IoD’s recommendations into its strategy, such as looking at ways to reduce non-tariff barriers outside of free trade agreements and developing a single online portal for all exports support and information on overseas markets. Creating a digital platform for businesses to submit information on market access barriers on a rolling basis will help inform these efforts. We also look forward to the Government stepping up its assessment of the feasibility of incentive schemes like export vouchers to help connect private sector offerings with would-be exporters.

“Ultimately the success of this strategy rests on its implementation in practice. To get the details right, this needs to be a dynamic process where business input continues to shape the Government’s approach.”