Kent already has links... Dover in Massachusetts

by business editor Trevor Sturgess

US trade experts are visiting Kent to promote a mission to Virginia and Massachusetts.

There are still a few vacancies on the visit to the United States in September and organisers hope a Doing Business in the US seminar will encourage more firms to take advantage of a growing US market.

Representatives from State of Massachusetts, the Greater Richmond Partnership (GRP) and Fairfax County Economic Development Authority will spell out the opportunities in Virginia and Boston for Kent companies.

The free seminar will be held at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford Business Point, Sevington, on June 14 from 9.45am to 1pm.

Speakers include Greg Wingfield President and CEO (GRP) and Bruce Greenwood, director of the Massachusetts Trade Office in Berlin.

Kent County Council and its partners are organising a two-centre mission to Virginia and Massachusetts from September 15 - 21 to Virginia.

Next month’s event aims to provide more information about these markets.

The United States has the largest and most technologically powerful economy in the world, and is the UK’s top export destination and second largest trading partner.

Goods and services from the UK enjoy a great reputation for quality in the US.

The mission is aimed primarily at businesses in the pharma, bio-tech, life sciences & environmental technology sectors but it could be valuable for companies from other industry sectors.

There will be a small charge to companies participating in the market visit to cover flights and hotel expenses but competitive group rates have been secured and subsidies are currently being sought.

Steve Samson, KCC’s international projects officer, said: “The visit aims to build on current links with Boston and Virginia and is part of the wider Kent International Business programme which aims to encourage more Kent businesses to consider international trade as a route to growth.”

To register for the seminar, email international.affairs@kent.gov.uk or telephone 01622 694046