Letter: Partnership key to open export doors

THE latest Scottish Government figures showing a 1.6 per cent rise in Scottish manufacturing exports last year is a positive indication that certain sectors are benefiting from the opportunities that exist overseas.

However, in the last quarter of 2010, the fact that manufacturing exports dropped by 0.3 per cent is a stark reminder that companies need more encouragement in making international trade part of their ongoing business strategy.

For some businesses, they may need greater access to information about how to approach foreign markets, to know where there is demand and who to target.

And for companies that haven't sold abroad, it can be a daunting prospect which is why international networks and trade missions have a critical role to play in helping create success.

But with more than 3,000 companies exporting out of Scotland there are far greater opportunities for success if they look to collaborate with other sectors.

By forging partnerships, companies can share information and ideas for the benefit of other exporters so that it's easier to open up the doors to overseas markets.

Robert Hannah, Regional Managing Partner, Grant Thornton, Glasgow