The Institute of Export and International Trade is urging businesses to make use of international opportunities to help alleviate the pressures of the economic downturn.

The non-governmental, not-for-profit organisation says it will provide support for businesses who want to break into the global market, which is often perceived as too complex to crack.

“International markets frequently present new challenges to our business,” said Hugh Brown, logistics manager for The Edrington Group.

An on-line service offering information, training and mentoring is being launched by the Institute, in addition to the Certified International Trade Advisor (CITA) finance qualification already on offer.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown welcomed the additional information and guidance offered by the Institute, adding that ‘knowledge and expertise is absolutely invaluable and helps us to keep a competitive edge’.

Lesley Batchelor, chair of the Institute, said: “With the number of UK firms involved in doing business overseas rapidly increasing, many businesses lack the expertise necessary to take full advantage of the opportunities the global markets offer.”

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008