A new end-to-end support service for UK exports has been created that will support businesses in the Scottish Borders to access markets abroad.
The new service will mean that exporters will have a single point of contact to help them access government support when exporting their products and produce to Europe.
Business owners can ask questions on a range of topics including, exporting to new markets, paperwork you need to sell your goods abroad and rules for a specific country where you want to sell services.
The scheme, officially named the Export Support Service (ESS), will harness the local expertise of British Embassies and High Commissions to support the businesses in-market. International Trade Advisers will assist businesses
The ESS will aim to simplify guidance and support for businesses, target specific difficulties businesses face, and promote the opportunities and support that the UK Government offers to industry.
Around £45 million in funding has been awarded to the scheme by the UK Government, and the move has been welcomed by local MP, John Lamont.
John Lamont MP said:
“It is a really big step for small and medium sized businesses to start exporting. There can be a lot of challenging export rules and documents to navigate, coupled with getting your product ready for that particular market.
“After having spoken to some of the advisers that will be supporting businesses, I strongly believe that this new support service will make it a lot easier for businesses in the Borders to harness the opportunities of exporting.
“The authoritative guidance that the support teams can provide on rules and paperwork needed for exporting to a specific country will make it all the easier for our local businesses to start selling abroad.
“I would encourage any local business who would like to know more about this service to contact me.”
