BUSINESS leaders from Suffolk who have successfully expanded their companies into overseas markets are using World Trade Week (8 to 12 June) to encourage others to do the same.

BUSINESS leaders from Suffolk who have successfully expanded their companies into overseas markets are using World Trade Week (8 to 12 June) to encourage others to do the same.

John Mayhew, chief executive of HET Software in Haverhill, a software firm for the homecare sector, said businesses should use the “excellent” opportunities available.

The firm has started to sell its range to the Australian market with considerable success, winning contracts with a number of high profile customers and culminating in a recent contract worth around �1million. The company puts much of its success down to the support provided through the UK Trade & Investment programme called 'Passport to Export' which is delivered by East of England International.

John Mayhew, chief executive of HET Software, said: “Local businesses should take advantage of the excellent opportunities that are available to them to get a foothold in international markets. EEI's International Trade Adviser Paul Sharpe has been very helpful each step of the way in helping us develop our overseas trade.”

East of England International, the delivery arm of UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) for the East of England, is encouraging local businesses to take up opportunities to investigate and expand into overseas markets through their programmes, including 'Passport to Export' and 'Gateway to Global Growth'.

Mr Sharpe said: “Passport to Export is just one of the services that East of England International has on offer to help you make that first step into trading abroad. Even though we are in a recession, this is a perfect time for businesses to start venturing into foreign markets and World Trade Week provides a great opportunity to kick start your business. Give East of England International a call to see how we can help to start growing your business.”

UKTI's Passport to Export programme, which is aimed at new and inexperienced exporters, offers free capability assessments, support in visiting potential markets, mentoring from a local export professional, free action plans, customised and subsidised training, and ongoing support.

World Trade Week highlights the importance of global trade in creating jobs and growth in the current economic climate. It aims to raise the profile of the range of practical support available to UK businesses to make sure they continue to be vibrant global traders and investors in the future.

It is being backed by UKTI, the British Chambers of Commerce and the CBI.