4 welcome
Welcome to the latest edition of Business Edge
Ana Christie CEO at Sussex Chamber of Commerce
With the elections around the corner, a recent conference in London was the ideal opportunity for the business leaders and Chambers of Commerce to discuss and deliver directly to senior politicians, the British Chambers of Commerce group manifesto, entitled A Business Plan for Britain. The goals of the Business Plan for Britain are shared by companies in every region and nation of the UK. By implementing the Business Plan for Britain, and by maintaining a relentless focus on policies that deliver prosperity, the next government can help to achieve the following aspirations: n Develop the talents of the next generation – because preparing young people for the world of work, investing in the skills of those already at work, and nurturing the business leaders of tomorrow are essential to the UK’s competitiveness; n Support long-term business investment – because promoting access to finance, and backing investors in dynamic businesses will support the rebalancing the UK economy so badly needs and help drive up productivity; n Grow Britain’s global trade potential –because building international networks, investing in our export skills base and removing barriers to trade will support UK businesses to take on the world; n Place business at the heart of local growth –because ensuring business growth takes centre stage in local decision-making and procurement will boost the economies of our cities, towns, and counties; n Rebuild Britain’s business infrastructure –because a world-class economy needs world-class infrastructure, and businesses need certainty that crucial improvements are actually delivered; n Drive down business costs and taxes –because simplifying the UK tax system, and reducing the taxes firms pay even before they generate a profit, will boost businesses competitiveness, investment and jobs; n Deliver a new settlement for Britain in Europe –because making the economic opportunities of the European trading bloc work for business, and ensuring clear safeguards for Britain against unwanted further integration, will be critical for our future success. We represent just 3% of global GDP. Britain was once, but is no longer, the world’s leading political and commercial power. Businesses and government must work together to craft a better destiny for Britain. If you would like to read the full Business Manifesto, it can be found on our website: http://www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/chamber/ business-manifesto/ Kind regards Ana Christie, Chief Executive, Sussex Chamber of Commerce
business edge january/february 2015
Tara Mason
International Trade Team Leader
As the team leader for the International Trade department I have been coming up with new and innovative ideas to ensure that we continue to offer an efficient and effective Export Documentation service. We are very pleased to announce that to aid a more time effective service we are now offering an Export Documentation walk in service. No appointment will be needed between the hours of 9:00 am – 16:00 Monday to Thursday and 9:00 am – 15:30 Friday for us to assist with your export documentation needs. Please contact myself or a member of the International Trade team on 0844 375 9551 to find out more information. We also offer the following International training courses: n A Foundation Course in Importing n An Introduction to Export Procedures n Appointment & Management of International Agents and Distributors n Becoming an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) n Classification of Goods Using Commodity & Tariff Codes n Export Controls and Licensing n Exporting – Understanding the Paperwork n e-z Cert Workshop n International Marketing and Selling Overseas n Inward Processing Relief (IPR) n Revised Incoterms Rules 2010 for Import Export n Using Documentary Letters of Credit, Drafts & Bills All of these courses are offered on an Open course basis but can also be delivered as In-house training tailored to your needs – for further information please contact Alison Watson on 0844 375 95 50 or email alison.watson@ sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk