Portsmouth is a major gateway to Europe. Businesses here are well-placed to take advantage of international markets and grow through exporting and importing.
If you’re looking to expand your business overseas, the following organisations can help.
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) Team South East
UK Trade & Investment Team is a government service that helps businesses trade internationally. They provide advice and support across a range of areas, including financial subsidies, export documentation, contacts in overseas markets, e-commerce, export training and market research, and overseas visits.
Enterprise Europe Network
Previously known as the European Information Service Centre (EISC), Enterprise Europe Network helps businesses grow in the EU. In the South East of England, they deliver business and technology opportunities to companies in the region. They also offer services like finding business partners and searching for grants.
GOV.UK
GOV.UK has a range of tools and guidance for businesses, including importing and exporting and doing business abroad. It brings together international trade services from multiple organisations and provides factsheets, news, events, and links to other relevant sites.
Department for Business and Trade also has free advice and support with international trade and exporting opportunities.
Portsmouth & South East Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber’s international trade service provides international trade advice, export documentation, and support, including help completing Carnets, Certificates of Origin, and other international trade forms.
They also offer E-Cert – the first online system that lets UK exporters apply for European Community Certificates of Origin over the internet, sending data securely to produce a hardcopy document.
Open to Export
Open to Export is a community-driven service for small and medium-sized businesses. It’s backed by UK Trade and Investment (UKTI).
Open to Export helps you grow your business by connecting you with international market specialists and global opportunities. It aims to provide the support network for businesses looking to expand internationally.