Deeside conference key to supporting businesses on global stage

The Welsh government minister for north Wales emphasised the importance of supporting local businesses in developing their international market capabilities during a conference in Deeside.

Lesley Griffiths MS was speaking at the Explore Export Wales conference held at the Village Hotel in Ewloe.

The event aimed to promote the benefits of exporting and the support available from the Welsh Government and its partners, while offering an opportunity to explore market opportunities and understand export processes.

The Welsh Government’s Programme for Government has prioritised export support for businesses, and its Export Action Plan provides a comprehensive range of support for companies looking to explore international markets and develop their potential overseas.

Last week, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething announced a £4 million investment by the Welsh Government over the next year to support Welsh exporters in finding and preparing for new market opportunities.

Ms Griffiths said: “This conference has been all about inspiring businesses and helping them understand how they can drive forward export opportunities.”

“We know there have been extraordinary challenges, but Welsh companies have continued to demonstrate their resilience and I am pleased exports continue to grow.”

“We have great companies here in North Wales and the event has provided a chance to not only celebrate their export successes to date but look at ways of how more overseas markets can enjoy and benefit from their products and services.”

The conference featured seminars, roundtable discussions, one-to-one meetings, and exhibitions, with over 120 delegates in attendance.

The Minister highlighted the success of several North Wales companies in exporting and the achievements of the Welsh food and drink industry.

Ms Griffiths noted that, as a direct result of the financial support provided by the Welsh Government to Welsh businesses over the past year, tens of millions of pounds in export deals have been secured.

She stressed the importance of continuing to showcase Welsh businesses on the world stage and offering support programmes to help maximise the opportunities and benefits of exporting.