North East firms looking to develop their exporting opportunities into Russia will have the chance to test the market for themselves in a UK Trade & Investment visit taking place in the New Year.

The group will travel to the historic city of St Petersburg on 27 February 2006 for three days, where they can meet potential new customers and business partners arranged by the UKTI commercial team in the St Petersburg Embassy, and find out at first hand the sales opportunities that exist for their own companies.

John Armstrong, international trade adviser with UKTI, will be on hand to give business advice and guidance in the market.

He has experience in doing business in the Russian market, and, together with his colleague Peter Langham from the British Consulate General in St Petersburg, he will be giving the group a pre-visit briefing session on how to do business in Russia.

John says: "St Petersburg is the second largest city in Russia with a population of just under five million.

“As the largest port in the north-west region, it is the gateway to the heart of Russia, and is known as The City of Tsars."

Five years ago, the Russian economic policy was in crisis, but the picture today could hardly be more different.

The country boasts a stable economy and a Government that is actively encouraging Russia's integration into the world economy.

The aim of the visit is to develop new business for North East companies by making contact with potential customers, distributors, agents and joint venture partners.

John says: "The visit is an ideal first step into the market. We can offer advice and support every step of the way, including pre-visit market and cultural briefings and assistance from UK Trade & Investment's commercial officers in St Petersburg.

"There's also the advantage of traveling as part of a high-profile British delegation with like-minded people who can share their experience and expertise and, of course, I'll be on hand to offer any additional support needed during the visit itself."

The Market Research Visit to St Petersburg, Russia will take place on 27 February to 2 March, and the three-day travel package is financially supported for eligible companies.

To check your eligibility, book your place or for more information on the visit, contact the International Trade Hotline on 0845 0505054.

News source: www.n-e-life.com
Print this news