Sussex business leaders, ministers, and international trade ambassadors gathered at Wilton Park in Wiston House, West Sussex, on Friday (8th July), for this year’s SussExport event – a one-day conference focussed on supporting businesses seeking new export opportunities and growing their skilled workforce.
Andrew Griffith MP welcomed delegates to the event as the host constituency MP, alongside Tom Cargill, Chief Executive of Wilton Park and the Right Honourable Gisela Stuart, Baroness of Edgbaston, Chair of Wilton Park. Attending Sussex-based businesses included Avtrade, Brighton Gin, Baker and Baker, Goodwood Estate, Loxwood Meadworks, Orion MIS, Sam’s Kitchen, Sussex High Weald Dairy, Fargro Limited, Edgcumbes coffee, Pala eyewear, Mojet Ventilation, and Tiny Box Company.
Andrew was appointed Exports Minister on Friday – an appointment made by the Prime Minister during the SussExport event and confirmed later in the day.
Ranil Jayawardena, Minister for International Trade delivered a keynote speech to the business leaders which highlighted the trade opportunities and resources available to them. The Minster highlighted the new trade deals secured with Australia and New Zealand, and upcoming ones with India and Mexico.
Delegates at the event had the opportunity to speak trade ambassadors representing countries including Germany, Switzerland, and Korea, and putting Sussex firmly on the international map of places to do business with. The event was a series of workshops, presentations and networking alongside a showcase of the broad spectrum of manufacturing and innovation happening in Sussex today, all looking to the future through creating strong global connections.
Trade plays a critical role in creating and sustaining jobs across the UK. The latest data shows that UK exports were worth £650 billion in the 12 months to the end of April this year, up almost 9 per cent compared to the previous year.
Ranil Jayawardena, Minister for International Trade, said:
“Sussex is a breeding ground for brilliant businesses producing a variety of great British products. It’s home to many tech pioneers, its food and drink is quickly becoming a staple around the world and its manufacturing industry is going from strength to strength.
“More exports mean more jobs, more growth and more opportunities – in Sussex and right across Britain – and I’m pleased we are helping these businesses sell to markets far beyond our shores and reach their full potential.”
Andrew Griffith MP said:
“It was a privilege to welcome business leaders and international representatives to Wilton Park for SussExport. The global delegation was interested to hear about Sussex and to meet our producers and innovators. We are working together to make sure that business has the support it needs to create a skilled workforce fit for the future and providing opportunities for our young people here in West Sussex.
“I am honoured to have been appointed as Minster for Exports to build on the great work already being done at the Department for International Trade. It is an exciting time for business.”
ENDS
Notes
- Photograph 1 – Andrew addressing delegates at SussExport.