World Trade Summit 2016 - The Commonwealth & Beyond
Gresham College, London
12th October 2016
Thank you for attending the IOE World Trade Summit 2016.
Initial feedback indicates that delegates found it a very informative and thought-provoking day.
As a delegate you have free unlimited access to the presentations given on the day, you can find these below.
A vibrant line up of industry specialists and experts at our exclusive World Trade Summit 2016 gave delegates much to think about.
Examining the ever changing business environment, the event discussed the big issues that businesses and the government must get to grips with in shaping international trade – export opportunities, dealing with Brexit and globalisation.
Gabriela Castro-Fontoura, Sunny Sky Solutions
Latin America - "It's not just about Brazil"
Gabriela gave an enlightening speech about South America, reminding delegates that "It's not just about Brazil". With 600 million people inhabiting the continent, 300 million of whom are classified as 'middle class', there are lots of opportunities for UK companies looking to export. However, the 20 countries making up South America have large cultural differences, so each market should be considered separately.
David Cant, Albion (Overseas) Limited
Russia: In from the cold
David urged delegates to consider Russia as an export destination. Although politically sensitive, Russia is the largest country in the world and is economically resurgent. David took delegates through the 'Dos' and 'Don'ts' of doing business in Russia and stressed that even in the age of globalisation, people buy from people – so exporters must visit target markets and meet potential customers.
Arne Mielken, Amber Road
Brexit means Brexit! But what does that really mean for exporters?
Arne made a point of addressing 'the elephant in the room' - Brexit, and what it really means for exporters. The recent IOE post Brexit referendum survey reinforced the importance of access to the EU single market for exporters but the audience was left in no doubt about the complexity of the Brexit process, as well as the uncertainty that would prevail while it was going on and possible problems following departure.
Isabel Oswell, The British Library
Exploring Global Growth Opportunities (at the British Library)
Attending on behalf of the British Library, Isabel reminded delegates that they support entrepreneurs to start, protect and grow successful businesses by giving them access to knowledge, collections and networks. The London Business & IP Centre gives free access to up-to-date business/market research and IP information and there is a regular programme of practical workshops and 1:1 advice.
Nicholas Niggli, WTO/Embassy of Switzerland in the UK
Trade-related Systemic Thoughts
Nicholas discussed the complexities of world trade and WTO rules, these include the fact that the UK must negotiate an individual membership with the World Trade Organisation that will have to be agreed by all 164 members, as well as the lack of international appetite for free trade agreements – and little experience within government for convening them.
William Hobbs, Barclays
Modelling A Brave New World
William took delegates through some economic forecasts, but left them on a positive note. Statistics show that global poverty has reduced significantly between 1981 and 2012, correlation between Korean and global exports indicates positive growth and Global GDP has been on a constant upward trend since 1960.
With thanks to our event partners:
