Intertrade UK gathers business evidence on Great Britain–Northern Ireland trade barriers

Business leaders have discussed practical barriers to trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland at a Keele University roundtable, with their feedback set to inform Intertrade UK’s strategic advice to the UK Government.

The meeting examined both the difficulties companies face when trading across the Irish Sea and opportunities to strengthen economic co-operation across the United Kingdom. It was co-chaired by Adam Jogee, MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme, and Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee DBE, chair of Intertrade UK.

Participants included policymakers and representatives from advanced manufacturing, retail, logistics, local government and higher education, alongside technology businesses based at the university’s Science and Innovation Park.

Discussions focused on strengthening supply-chain relationships, developing new markets and identifying changes that could help businesses trade across the UK. A networking lunch followed, giving delegates an opportunity to explore practical collaboration.

Intertrade UK said feedback from the session would shape its continuing advice to the Government, with the aim of making policy more responsive to businesses’ needs and supporting growth.

Baroness Foster said: “I was delighted to work with Adam Jogee MP to bring together business leaders and stakeholders at Keele University for our Intertrade UK event. We’re gathering evidence directly from businesses about the real-world challenges and opportunities for Great Britain-Northern Ireland trade which will inform our ongoing advice to the UK Government.”