How to export to new markets
Developing your export business requires a wide range of skills.
As businesses seek to boost their exports while coping with Brexit and COVID-19, there is much work to do if the UK is to become an export superpowerLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window.
While you must embrace uncertainty in the hunt for new markets, there is help available.
To give yourself the best chances of successfully exporting overseas, you’ll need to research the markets that you intend to penetrate.
You can get information from a variety of online sources, including the following:
- The Department for International Trade has information on countries and sectorsLink opens in a new window.
- The Institute of Export has helpful information on how to do market researchLink opens in a new window.
- Your local Chamber of CommerceLink opens in a new window can also provide advice and help on international trade.
- You can contact your industry trade association, as well as business organisations such as the CBI (Confederation of British Industry) and the FSB (Federation for Small Businesses).
- There are also specialist business organisations focused on facilitating trade and investment between the UK and major, fast-growth markets, such as The UK-India Business CouncilLink opens in a new window and the UK-ASEAN Business Council.Link opens in a new window
You can also conduct in-market researchLink opens in a new window to obtain tailored information on the marketplace.
It may also be useful to obtain legal advice from a law firm that has knowledge of your intended market and its local laws.
Law DonutLink opens in a new window provides an overview of the sort of issues you may encounter.
Having the right finance in place to support your export efforts is important. Learn more about export finance
UK Export Finance
UK Export Finance (UKEF) works alongside the Department for International Trade to support your export business.
It can be beneficial in three ways:
- it can provide attractive financing terms to your buyers
- it supports working capital loans to enable UK exporters to take on and fulfil orders
- it offers insurance against buyers defaulting on payments.
Learn more about UK Export Finance.
Being familiar with the procedures, documentation, and logistics involved in exporting to your chosen market is also important.
The websites of the Department for International TradeLink opens in a new window and the British Chambers of CommerceLink opens in a new window provide practical guidance on international trade matters.
The UK Government has put out broad guidance for the following sectors of the economy:
- AerospaceLink opens in a new window
- AutomotiveLink opens in a new window
- ChemicalsLink opens in a new window
- ConstructionLink opens in a new window
- ConsumerLink opens in a new window
- Electronics and machineryLink opens in a new window
- Financial servicesLink opens in a new window
- Life sciencesLink opens in a new window
- Metals and other materialsLink opens in a new window
- RetailLink opens in a new window
- ServicesLink opens in a new window
UK Export Academy
From introductory sessions to specific sector workshops, The UK Export Academy has hours of content available for smaller businesses from across the UK.
Whether you’re brand new to exporting, or looking for a refresher, by signing up to the UKEA you can customise your programme with workshops that suit you.
the UKEA beginner modules are repeated across the year, so you can sign up to as many as you like at the pace that works for you.
Foundation course: UKEA beginner modules will introduce you to key exporting basics, including how to create an export action plan, identify your target audience, conduct market research, understand customs documentation, export services overseas, and much more
Masterclasses: intermediary modules explore specialised areas of interest in more detail. From opportunities in specific markets to sector-focused workshops, they'll give you all the practical advice and tips relevant to your chosen area. These workshops are ideal for businesses who have already started exporting and are looking for growth in specialist markets or sectors.
Opportunities: UKEA market modules bring in the knowledge and guidance from UKEA international colleagues. Discover opportunities in markets of interest, including the benefits of new free trade agreements.
Accessing the UKEA is free to businesses and is fully funded by the Department for International Trade.
To learn more or to sign your business up, visit the Department for International Trade website.
Regional support
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Reference to any organisation, business and event on this page does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation from the British Business Bank or the UK Government. Whilst we make reasonable efforts to keep the information on this page up to date, we do not guarantee or warrant (implied or otherwise) that it is current, accurate or complete. The information is intended for general information purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation, nor does it constitute legal, financial, tax or other professional advice. You should always consider whether the information is applicable to your particular circumstances and, where appropriate, seek professional or specialist advice or support.
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