Businesses in the West Midlands are being urged to take advantage of an exciting opportunity to find out more about trading in Bulgaria and Romania from experts in these countries.

UK Trade & Investment's commercial officers from the two countries, which joined the European Union in 2007, will lead a seminar at Advantage West Midlands on Aston Science Park on Friday May 14. The session will include advice to help West Midlands companies reach these markets and there will be the opportunity for one-to-one sessions with the officers after lunch.

The free event, which is being organised by the Midlands World Trade Forum (MWTF) on behalf of UKTI, runs from 9am to midday, with lunch afterwards.

It will feature overviews of the countries and presentations based around how companies can successfully export to the two countries. 

Romania is the second largest consumer market in central and Eastern Europe after Poland and its government is committed to improving the business environment and attracting more foreign investors. Opportunities for exporters exist in a wide range of sectors, from railways to financial and legal services.

Opportunities in Bulgaria for foreign companies include those in priority sectors of water, environment and communication. Private-public partnerships are due to be introduced in the water sector which will open up new avenues for UK water companies and consultancies. EU funding is improving roads and railways, with the chance for UK companies to become involved with consultancy and equipment.