New support initiative launched for UK exports to South East Asia

UK businesses keen to export to high growth markets in South East Asia can benefit from a new support initiative.

Headstart offers practical help to SMEs, including start-ups, that want to export to those markets for the first time.

Firms can expect to gain access to local networks and be introduced to established UK companies. Temporary office space with local British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and ongoing access to BCC staff will also be available.

The service is a partnership between the UKTI, the UK-ASEAN Business Council and the BCC in Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.

Six month pilot

Headstart is modelled on an initiative developed by the UKTI’s delivery partner in China, the China Britain Business Council. It is being piloted for six months in Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia before being evaluated. If it’s found to have been of benefit, it will be expanded into other markets in South East Asia.

Trade and Investment Minister Lord Green said: “Many more British companies could be exporting, but we know that striking out into new and unfamiliar markets can sometimes look daunting. Headstart will help SMEs seize the many opportunities in fast growing economies of South East Asia by connecting them with local support quickly.

“We want to see another 100,000 businesses exporting by 2020 and helping more small firms to do so is vital to securing a return to long-term and sustainable growth.”