LOCAL companies new to the export business are being invited on a trip to Riga in Latvia in November to explore a new market and make business contacts.

The visit to the formerly communist Baltic region country is one of five being organised by UK Trade & Investment and takes place from Monday, November 23 to Wednesday, November 25. Delegates will learn how to approach the Latvian and wider Baltic market and there will be a networking reception at the Ambassador’s residence and one to one meetings with potential partners. There will also be a presentation from a local distributor and the chance to explore the city of Riga.

Key sectors for this visit are cyber and retail food. Riga is the European capital of free Wi-Fi and the Latvian food market is worth £1.8b. Delegates will have the opportunity to speak and exhibit at a cyber seminar or meet buyers from a prestigious department store in the Baltics at a food and drink event.

Linda Smith, head of international trade at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: "If you are thinking about starting to export but would like the support of a fully escorted business development visit, this could be for you."

At the crossroads of Northern and Eastern Europe with one of the fastest growing economies in the continent, the Latvian market is well suited to new exporters. The country has a strong appetite for brand Britain and English is widely used as a business language. The visit will coincide with British Week, organised by the British Chamber of Commerce in Latvia to promote the UK as a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation.

The cost of the visit is £200 plus VAT per delegate, and includes pre-arranged return flights from Gatwick, accommodation in Riga, a group dinner and a full programme. For more information and to secure a place contact UKTI West Midlands customer service team at 0345 222 0159 or enquiries@uktiwm.co.uk.