Below are details of some upcoming seminars which might be of interest to you if you’re looking to move into particular overseas markets, along with links to other more general international trade resources.

Global Trade Network – www.gtnetwork.co.uk – run periodicly, Country specific 1 day seminars. Future ones include Entering Russia [15th Oct] and Entering the European Market [26th Nov]. If you’re looking for new markets, or have identified possibilities, see if they have a seminar coming up. Costs and usually minimal and you also have the chance to set up a stand, for a small additional fee.

East of England International – www.eei-online.com – is part of UKTI and works with any business in the East of England who is looking to export as well as looking to attract overseas businesses/inward investment into the area. Again, they run regular workshops and seminars at minimal cost, often featuring specific regions.

Business Link East – www.businesslink.gov.uk/east – provide free business support advisors to any SME in the area and can be not only a useful independent person to bounce ideas off of, but can also help signpost you to other providers which will allow you to take your business onwards. They also have an extensive research department available.

Next: “Some International Trade Seminars and Resources”.

There’s no charge as such when you buy/sell currency; it’s built into the exchange rate. However, it has been reported that some banks especially, have recently tweaked the rates on smaller deals and widened the margin, i.e. they are giving you a worse rate and taking a larger slice of commission for themselves. Almost impossible to prove, but it re-inforces the need for everyone to review their FX provider on a regular basis and ensure that you’re still getting acceptable rates. Benchmark and, if you’re not happy, move to someone who is better. Let me know: I can put you in touch with possible new providers.

East of England International – www.eei-online.com – is part of UKTI and works with any business in the East of England who is looking to export as well as looking to attract overseas businesses/inward investment into the area. Again, they run regular workshops and seminars at minimal cost, often featuring specific regions.

Business Link East – www.businesslink.gov.uk/east – provide free business support advisors to any SME in the area and can be not only a useful independent person to bounce ideas off of, but can also help signpost you to other providers which will allow you to take your business onwards. They also have an extensive research department available.