Businesses from across Yorkshire say export sales could be boosted as a result of a special UK Trade & Investment clinic. 

Doing Business in the Baltic States, hosted by World Trade Centre Hull & Humber on October 12, identified potential opportunities in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in the form of one-to-one meetings with UK Trade & Investment’s overseas experts.

Businesses met with UKTI international commercial officers and discussed a wide range of sectors from logistics to clothing, to education and drinks.

David Lilley, UKTI’s international trade team adviser manager, said: “The Humber has a long-standing relationship with the Baltic states which saw significant growth before the downturn with many local companies doing good business in these countries.

“There was a sharp decrease in business as a result of the recession. However, the Baltic states have really bounced back with Estonia and Lithuania showing the fastest growth in the EU in the second quarter and again offering export opportunities to local businesses.

“The feedback from companies that attended the clinic was extremely positive stating that it was likely to lead to new export sales.”

Indri Pallo, director of trade and investment and regional trade manager for UKTI’s Baltic region, revealed the opportunities for UK businesses with aspirations to trade in the lucrative Baltic territories. He was supported by Ringaile Saviciene from Lithuania and Sanita Bankava from Latvia.

Mica Vine, international business executive with Language is Everything, said that the clinics provided specific advice and guidance.

“The high calibre advisers were interesting and engaging, outlining key facts that should be considered by companies considering targeting these markets. The service will prove to be extremely valuable to Language is Everything as we expand our global network of expertise.”

Further one-to-one events are being planned at World Trade Centre Hull & Humber and other locations across Yorkshire.