UKTI event highlights opportunities

As businesses begin to emerge from the recession, partnerships within high-growth economies are vital if UK engineering is to remain competitive.

This was the message put to leading engineering companies at a UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) event held in Sao Paulo earlier this month. Backed by key figures in industry, the event aimed to outline opportunities for UK advanced engineering expertise.

Speaking to The Engineer, Keith Jordan, business development manager at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), explained why collaboration with Brazil could help improve prospects for UK industry.

‘One of the great things about the Brazilian market is its sheer size,’ said Jordan. ‘This year in the automotive sector alone the country is going to be close to building three million vehicles. It also has a very strong aerospace and construction equipment industry that could be of huge benefit to the UK.’

The UK’s own automotive sector is worth more than £4.5bn and contributes around £9.8bn to the British economy. Around six of the world’s top 10 vehicle makers and 19 of the top 20 auto parts markers have a manufacturing presence in the UK. Jordan claims this places the UK at a clear advantage to partner with leading global businesses.