Export Statistics Show Opportunities But Future Remains Uncertain

This is the view of North East England Chamber of Commerce who analysed the findings.

2019 has started off on a positive note for the North East’s global community, with exports up on both the quarter, 7.3%, and the year, 4.2%. This was spurred by a 12% growth into our European market and 4.7% growth to our North American market.

The export total for 2019 Q1 stood at £3.5bn, while imports stood at £3.8bn, resulting a trade balance of -£274m.  This import spike continues into 2019, with a 1.4% rise on the quarter and a 13% rise since 2018 Q1.

Jack Simpson, policy adviser, North East England Chamber of Commerce said: “Growing Brexit uncertainty and threat at the time of a No Deal cliff edge on March 29^th could explain the sharp rise in imports as businesses began stockpiling vital products, bracing for a worst-case scenario.

“The North East continues to outperform the rest of the country but is under threat by political instability. Brexit is a prime concern for global business, but issues around skills, investment and transport have been left by the wayside during the Brexit impasse. A swift and acceptable Brexit outcome is needed, so we can focus on how to develop our Global North East.

“Our own economic surveys show that global markets can be volatile, but prosperous. Political instability both at home and abroad has plagued exporting over the last year, but it is pleasing to see the North East has started the year on the right foot”

“The EU continues to grow as the region’s top export destination and this data should act as a reminder to those in Westminster how important it is, especially to the North East, to deliver a deal that preserves our trading relationship with our biggest and most important market”.

“Trade with our North American partners continues to grow, and it has been good to see the Chemical sector recover from its 2018 slump”.

“We have so many great and innovative businesses in our region and I am confident that, with the right support and conditions, these figures can grow further.”