Bradford bosses, who may think they already work in the frozen north, are being given a chance to trade with firms in Iceland.

A trade mission has been organised by Business Link Bradford & District for early November and firms are being asked to book places on it.

Mission leader Sam Grundy said: "Iceland isn't the first country that a company may look to for export sales and this means it is often overlooked.

"However, the country enjoys a very high standard of living and British goods are particularly popular. The market offers opportunities for companies looking to take advantage of Icelanders being among the highest spenders in the world."

Although not a full member of the European Union, Iceland is a member of the Single Market and this means British companies can export there without being hit by tariffs.

According to DTI Export Promoter Tom Burnham: "Exceptional opportunities exist for UK companies in many sectors both industrial and consumer. The close allegiance of the UK and Iceland and the fact that English is widely spoken means that Iceland is an excellent market for new and experienced exporters. Icelanders have developed a taste for British products and they make over 100,000 shopping trips to the UK every year."

The Icelandic economy is currently enjoying a boom with the economy growing at a rate of around five per cent and an increase in long-term foreign investment means this is set to continue.

Sam Grundy added: "Economic conditions mean that it is an ideal time for UK companies to start doing business in Iceland. Iceland exports most of its produce and needs to import more or less all its necessities and consumer goods.

"Sectors covering giftware, medical supplies, textiles, furniture as well as machinery, computers and raw materials are all in demand."

Helen Downer, Government Office representative at Business Link, said: "I would hope that companies take the time to look at the opportunities that exist for them in Iceland as they may have the potential to be successful in this market."

The mission will take place between November 3 and 7 and there is the possibility of extra funding from the DTI to help firms make the trip.

For further details contact Sam Grundy or Helen Downer on 01274 751385.

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