The latest figures released by the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce reveal growth in trade between firms based in the mid Yorkshire region and operators in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following Brexit.
The Chamber has released figures from its MY Export Hub department for 2021, which show that Turkey (32 per cent) and the UAE (20 per cent) are now the most popular exporting destinations for firms in Yorkshire.
This is followed by Saudi Arabia (10 per cent) and Egypt (9 per cent).
The figures have been published by the Chamber’s MY Export Hub department, which supports local businesses with all aspects of international trade.
The growth in trade with businesses in Turkey and UAE contrasts with less than 2.5 per cent of all documents issued being for EU countries, following changes to processes and requirements for trading after the UK’s departure from the EU.
Martin Hathaway, managing director of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am really pleased to see such significant growth in trading with these nations, and the strengthening of trade links with both Turkey and the United Arab Emirates.
“The fallout from Brexit has dramatically affected our region’s trade with European countries, so I am delighted that we are forging new connections and creating new opportunities for global growth here in Yorkshire.”
The Mid Yorkshire Chamber processed almost 6,000 trade documents in 2021, with only 2.5 per cent being for EU countries.
Kornelia Szymla, export supervisor at the Chamber, continued: “Despite the challenges following Brexit and the effects of Covid-19 on international trade, we have had a really strong year in the MY Export Hub department, helping businesses in Yorkshire to trade internationally.
“We are keen to see the result of the current Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and hope that this will provide further opportunities for our region.
“I am confident that we can continue this growth in 2022, and we urge any business that requires assistance to seek support from our team.”
The Chamber’s MY Export Hub arm supports businesses in the mid Yorkshire regions of Halifax, Huddersfield and Wakefield with all aspects of international trade, including documentation, accredited training, foreign exchange and translation services.
