Welcome to the March edition of our International Trade Newsletter! As we wrap up the first quarter of 2025, we're bringing you the latest insights from the world of international trade. It’s been an action-packed month in the department, with significant updates on key regulations like the Windsor Framework and the CPTPP, plus several exciting webinars to look forward to!
With Easter just around the corner, please note that our department will be closed on Good Friday, 18th April and Easter Monday, 21st April. This may also affect postal services, so be sure to plan ahead and apply for your export documents early to avoid any delays.
Additionally, starting 1st April 2025, our new price list for export documentation will come into effect - contact us for the new price list. Please remember to update your purchase order systems with the latest details.
Last month our International Trade Manager Angela Turner attended the British Chambers of Commerce Trade Facilitation Forum in Birmingham. The two-day event was a great opportunity for her to connect and collaborate with colleagues in the Chamber Network. Angela attended thought provoking presentations and workshops on topics such as CPTPP Origin and Preference, Free Trade Agreements and the UK Trade Strategy.
Commenting on the Forum, Angela said: “This is my second year attending the Forum, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Events like this are a great way to learn, catch up with chamber colleagues and gain new insights from industry experts. I’ve come back with great ideas on how we can enhance our own International Trade offering.”
Upcoming International Trade Events
We have a great webinar on 3rd April where experts from ScandiConnect will deliver a presentation on the benefits of trading with Scandinavia. Later that same day we have a fascinating introduction to the importance of compliance with translated legal and technical documents, hosted by TTC wetranslate.
The following week we have two more exciting webinars, firstly key compliance on the new GPSR regulations and requirements on Monday 7th followed by Understanding the African Economy on Thursday 9th where we will delve into the foreign business opportunities in the African economy.
Why Trade with Scandinavia Webinar – Thursday 3rd April
Trading with Scandinavia offers numerous benefits due to the region's strong economy, innovation, sustainability focus, and efficient business environment. Join us and our experts from ScandiConnect, to learn more about why you should consider the Scandinavian region.
Ensuring Compliance with Translated Legal and Technical Documents – Thursday 3rd April
Join us in this essential webinar to learn how accurate translations help facilitate cross-border operations and protect your business.
- Avoid product recalls by ensuring that contracts and compliance documents are compliant at an international level.
- Ensure smooth operations around the world by eliminating ambiguity and unplanned delays.
- Earning trust and credibility from customers, regulators, and business partners worldwide.
Learn How the New GPSR is Changing Product Safety Standards Webinar – Monday 7th April
The General Product Safety Directive (GPSD) was replaced by the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) on 13th December, marking a significant shift in product safety across the EU. Join us for this informative 1 ½ hour webinar where we’ll dive deep into the key updates, new requirements, and how your business can stay compliant. Our trainer will guide you through everything you need to know about this important regulation.
Understanding the African Economy & Opportunities Webinar- Wednesday 9th April
Advance International Business Development is a private company, incorporated in South Africa.
They provide business and management consulting services to Nordic, European and South African companies and organisations for the development and implementation of their international business and export strategy.
Join the conversation as we dive into the African economy and the many opportunities it holds for foreign businesses and investors looking to tap into the fast-growing sectors across the continent.
Trade Expert Training – Member Funding Available
Our members can still benefit from funding provided by Essex Chambers of 
Commerce and Essex County Council to secure a great discount on training courses so why not have a look or contact the International Trade Team for more information.
Members can receive:
- £200 funding towards our British Chambers of Commerce Accredited Training courses, meaning they pay just £50 + VAT per person
- £245 funding towards our Academy courses, meaning they pay just £100 + VAT per person
Upcoming Trade Expert courses
- Export Procedures & Documentation Training – Tuesday 25th March
- Import Procedures & Documentation Training – Tuesday 1st April
- Letters of Credit Training – Tuesday 8th April
- Incoterms® 2020 Training – Tuesday 15th April
- Understanding Commodity Codes Training – Tuesday 22nd April
Upcoming Trade Academy courses
- Sustainability in Supply Chain – Monday 24th March
- International Trade - A Journey Through Time and Trends – Monday 7th April
- Supply Chain – Wednesday 23rd April
Don’t forget you can contact the International Trade Team if you have any queries or suggestions of events, training or webinars you would like to see in the future.