The feedback from the annual Metalloobrabotka International Exhibition in Moscow this week highlights positive trends for the wider manufacturing technology sector. As one of the BRIC nations, increasing trade with Russia should be a high priority for the UK’s engineering exporters. The encouraging number of visitors to the MTA stand at the Show agues well but how can this interest be taken forward?
The MTA can play a key role in helping members make business introductions and evaluate market opportunities in Russia. For many years the Association has maintained a Russian office in Ekaterinburg headed by a knowledgeable Director, Dr Igor Bazhenov. The Association, in contrast to many other trade bodies, is well placed to assist members explore export and trade options in this expanding market. The signs from this year’s Metalloobrabotka are that Russia is open for business.
Putting aside recent difficulties in the realm of foreign affairs, Anglo-Russian trade relations remain positive. Indeed the links between the two countries run deep. This month the 70th anniversary commemorations of the Arctic Convoys paid tribute to the courage of British sailors in supplying Russia during the darkest days of World War Two. English has been widely taught in Russian schools so that today most industrialists will have a reasonable command of the language. Russians enjoy visiting the UK and appreciate our culture and heritage.
The President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation in welcoming participants to Metalloobrabotka paid tribute to the growth of the Exhibition, showcasing the products of leading manufacturers from all over the world. He drew attention to the Chamber’s continuous focus on the mechanical engineering industry, and in particular the machine-tool building sector.
Wider export opportunities will be discussed at the UK Trade & Export Finance Conference on 11 June in Birmingham. The event, supported by the MTA, will bring British companies of all sizes (multinationals, mid-cap and SMEs) together to discuss how best to increase UK exports. MTA members are entitled to a 15% discount on delegate fees.
We also have news this week of a free workshop at the University of Sheffield AMRC on 10 June entitled Apprenticeships: Legalities and Mentoring. The workshop provides an overview of the critical legal requirements of an employer when employing apprentices together with an insight into an effective mentoring process operated within an apprenticeship programme.
As we close for distribution we have just received news that unfortunately the Warwick Manufacturing Group has cancelled the Additive Manufacturing Seminar on 13 June.
Have a good weekend.