The latest UK trade figures should be a catalyst for a wider conversation about what businesses need to succeed in international markets, says Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce Associate Partner for International Trade and Economic Development Dr Ilona Karpanos.
With goods export volumes falling in June and little sustained growth over the past three years, Dr Karpanos says the challenge is not simply identifying export potential, but creating the conditions that enable businesses to turn international opportunities into commercial success.
“The latest trade figures are a useful reminder that export growth cannot be taken for granted,” she said.
“The bigger question is: what do businesses actually need to succeed in international markets?
“From my perspective, working across international trade and economic development, the answer is not simply another strategy or policy document. It is about creating the right conditions, building meaningful relationships and giving businesses the confidence and support to take opportunities forward.”
Through her work with businesses, Dr Karpanos says the barriers to international growth are often highly practical.
“Businesses want clearer routes into new markets, trusted contacts, better market intelligence, practical export support and, importantly, fewer barriers standing between them and international opportunities.
“That is very much at the heart of the work I am doing through the Chamber. Whether we are supporting businesses to explore new markets, developing international partnerships or preparing for our trade mission to Azerbaijan, the focus is on turning international ambition into genuine commercial opportunity.”
Looking beyond established markets
Dr Karpanos believes there is significant untapped potential for UK businesses in Azerbaijan, the wider Caucasus and Central Asia, particularly for companies prepared to invest in developing long-term relationships.
“There is much more scope for UK businesses to engage, trade and build lasting partnerships in these markets,” she said.
“But opening a door is only the beginning. Businesses need the right connections, knowledge, confidence and support to turn an opportunity into a contract, investment or lasting commercial relationship.”
Exploring emerging opportunities, she adds, should not come at the expense of strengthening the UK’s trading relationship with the European Union.
“Our geography has not changed, and neither has the importance of the European market to UK businesses. Finding practical ways to reduce unnecessary barriers and make trading with our closest major market easier must remain part of the conversation.”
From export potential to export growth
While the continued strength of UK services exports provides grounds for encouragement, Dr Karpanos says stagnant goods exports should not be accepted as the new normal.
“If we want international trade to play a greater role in economic growth, we need to move beyond talking about export potential and focus on making international growth easier to achieve.
“That means stronger international engagement, better practical support for businesses and a willingness to listen to — and act on — the barriers businesses are experiencing on the ground.
“The appetite is there. The opportunities are there. Our role is to help businesses turn both into growth.”
The Chamber continues to support businesses looking to explore international markets, develop overseas connections and identify new trading opportunities.