Stronger exports remain critical to Britain's recovery

Wednesday, 11th January 2012

Commenting on the trade figures for November 2011, published today by the ONS, Anne White, Head of International Trade, Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce said:

“The trade figures for November show a widening in the trade deficit. While the figures are largely as expected given the strong improvement seen in October, they are disappointing. Longer-term comparisons show that the rebalancing of the economy towards exports is going ahead, but the pace is inadequate and must be strengthened.

“The difficult challenges facing the global economy, particularly in the eurozone, mean that exporters will have to work hard to maintain their position in world markets. While the government rightly continues to reduce the deficit, there will be a knock-on effect on domestic demand – making a strong export performance critical to Britain’s future. The situation, however, in the Thames Valley is improving with documentation services for exporters having an excellent month in December.”

“Over the next few years, net exports should be the main engine of the recovery. The government must support a national export drive, with more support for firms in key areas such as trade finance, insurance and promotion. Though a competitive pound and low interest rates can help our exporters, further efforts are needed to ensure that British businesses can compete equitably with foreign exporters. On their part, British exporters must reinforce their efforts to diversify sales to fast-growing economies, particularly in Asia.”

Ends

Notes to editors:

ONS trade figures: http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/uktrade/uk-trade/november-2011/index.html