A MAJOR package of practical measures to encourage smaller firms to export has been announced by the Government.

The measures have been developed in response to recommendations by the Export Forum and are geared towards smaller firms. Trade minister Lord Clinton-Davis said the programme would be flexible to allow as many businesses as possible to take part. It includes the Export Explorer programme, aimed at introducing new and inexperienced exporters to European markets. Its target is for 1,000 small companies, currently not exporting actively, to take part in the firstyear. Anew Internet-based sales leads service will put UK exporters in touch with overseas sales opportunities using UK embassies and high commissions. It will also establish a national database of exporters. The government has also planned the biggest ever support programme for trade fairs and outward missions.

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