International Trade
The West Midlands is an important region for international trade:
- West Midlands companies account for 9.5% of UK exports
- There are over 5,000 businesses in the region actively exporting
But with use of English on the internet declining and a balance of trade that is skewed towards English-speaking countries, there is huge potential for export businesses that can proactively use language skills and cultural knowledge.
International trade support from the RLN
To be successful in international trade you need to understand the language, culture and business etiquette of your target market and to help you do this the RLN offers a range of resources, language advice and support, including:
Business Language Training - contact us for details of business language trainers in your area
Business Language Courses - contact us for details of business language courses running at local institutions
Language Professionals - contact us for details of quality assured interpreters and translators in your area
Cultural Briefings - country guides providing advice on business culture, business etiquette and language
How to Guides for Business - downloadable guides to help you get the most out of language skills and services
If your business is involved in international trade then there are several organisations in the region who can offer you further advice and support. These include:
UK Trade & Investment
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) supports companies in the West Midlands that want to trade and invest overseas. UKTI work in partnership with West Midlands Chambers of Commerce LLP to deliver international trade services across the region. Those new to international trade can receive help from the Passport to Export programme, whereas the Gateway to Global Growth programme offers support to existing exporters.
Find out more about how UKTI can help your business 
Export Communications Review
Export Communications Reviews provide impartial and objective language advice and cultural support to help you overcome the barriers of trading in overseas markets. With the help of your ECR consultant you can develop effective strategies for communicating with foreign clients and improve your overall international competitiveness.
Find out more about Export Communications Review
Midlands World Trade Forum
If your business exports then you might be interested in joining the Midlands World Trade Forum (MWTF) where you can share the views and experience of other West Midlands businesses involved in international trade.
Get international trade support from the MWTF
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