The Global Ports Seminar, to be held by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) on Thursday 5 June in Liverpool, will bring companies face to face with key international decision makers looking for new suppliers and partners, and enable the region's businesses to network with over 100 representatives from the UK's ports industry.
The event has speakers from all over the world including China, Canada, Egypt, India, Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam, and delegates will have the chance to gather valuable leads relating to major ports projects, expansion plans and supplier needs in a variety of high growth markets.
Major opportunities include a C$222 million investment in security at the Port of Vancouver, Mexican government plans to build 5 new ports and modernise a further 22, a US$200 million port being constructed in Doha, Qatar, and a major 10 year port investment programme in China to construct and upgrade facilities.
In addition the Indian government are implementing a National Maritime Development Project worth £7 billion, Libya's Ports Authority development plans are valued at £800 million with additional budgets for equipment and machinery, and Vietnam are outlining prospects for growth in their ambitious Seaport System Development Plan by 2010.
UK Trade & Investment staff including Commercial Officers, the International Business Specialist for Ports and International Trade Advisers and market specialists will also be on hand throughout the day to offer support and advice for businesses wishing to make the most of their overseas trade.
This important event - one of only two being held in the UK this year - will be of interest to companies covering all aspects of the industry, including:
* Ports Management
* Ports Equipment
* Maritime Security
* Financial Services
* Design
* Planning
* Training
* Education
* Logistics
Clive Drinkwater, International Trade Director for UKTI North West says,
"UK expertise in the ports sector is second to none. Britain has one of the most diverse port industries in the world ranging from major container and passenger terminals to fishing ports, recreational harbours, oil and gas terminals and marinas.
"Having enjoyed major investment in recent years, this sector has reached impressive levels of efficiency and is going from strength to strength. The UK has an enviable track record in the successful delivery of projects, making our ports sector highly regarded overseas and putting UK firms in an excellent position to export their skills. I would strongly urge North West businesses to register for our Global Ports event in order to really maximise their export potential over the next few years."
