Suffolk is “leading the way” in regional exports after seeing them soar this year, new figures reveal.

Suffolk Chamber of Commerce saw a 14% rise in the export papers it dealt with in January to June of this year, compared to the same period last year. That compared to an average 9% rise across the East of England.-

Suffolk Chamber, which processed 3,639 export documents, compared to 3,188 for the same six months last year, said it showed the county was playing a “major role” in the recovery of UK plc.

“We are very pleased with what are excellent figures,” said Suffolk Chamber chief executive John Dugmore.

“More importantly, we are pleased for firms, large and small, across the county who are either exporting for the first time or increasing the amount of exporting they are doing.”

The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce made 2013 its year of ‘Exporting is Good for Suffolk’ which has been backed by Prime Minister David Cameron and Minister for Business Lord Green.

“The economic environment remains a challenging one which is why we agreed with the Prime Minister when he said exporting is key to the success of the UK,” said Mr Dugmore.

“That is why we have been focusing on exporting.”

The Chamber wanted to ensure businesses which wants to trade around the world has the knowledge, access and skill set to do that, he said.

“An over 14% increase shows that the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of firms in Suffolk is appealing to a global audience. We’ll build on this and ensure exporting continues to be a fundamental pillar of our local and regional economy.”