Manufacturers’ leaders have joined forces with government trade body UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) in a bid to boost exports.

Manufacturers’ lobby group EEF has signed a partnership deal with the UKTI which will see both organisations working closely together to build stronger partnerships with manufacturers, boost overseas trade missions and raise greater awareness of the support available from UKTI.

The agreement, signed by UKTI CEO Dominic Jermey and EEF CEO Terry Scuoler, is based on achieving the Government’s £1trillion export target by 2020.

EEF represents global corporations to small and medium-sized businesses

EEF East of England director Jim Davison said: “Improving our export performance is key to helping Britain achieve the better-balanced economy needed to deliver long-term stability and growth. UKTI has a vital role to play in helping companies to increase their global footprint.

“We will now work together to ensure that manufacturers are aware of the support it provides in finding new markets overseas, as well as smoothing the way for new exporters.”

UKTI boss Dominic Jermey said he was delighted to be working more closely with British manufacturers through EEF to drive towards sustainable economic growth through exports.

“This partnership will be a very positive step forward towards this goal,” he said. “The scale of ambition to achieve our £1 trillion export target by 2020 will require a full team effort with government and business working together.

“This partnership will be a very positive step forward towards this goal.”