Only a few places remain at the largest international trade event ever held in the East Midlands and local businesses are being urged by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) not to miss out and book their place today.

The UKTI and RBS Doing Business in Asia: Meet the Experts event in Hinckley, Leicestershire, on Thursday 25 November, brings together businesses and UKTI representatives based at embassies and High Commissions in China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam, to share their experiences and business and political knowledge.

Peter Hogarth, UKTI International Trade Director for the East Midlands, said: "Recent feedback from businesses shows that they are optimistic about their prospects for sales overseas, as exports are growing faster than UK sales. 

"Local companies, such as Benoy Architects in Nottinghamshire and Rolls Royce in Derby, both joined the recent Prime Minister-led trade mission to China and came back with huge orders. 

"At UKTI we help companies to sell into whichever markets are most appropriate to them. In particular, we are seeing opportunities growing in a number of markets in Asia. China alone is the world's second largest economy and the UK's ninth largest export market.

"This event is an excellent place for people to learn more about how they can grow their businesses in these markets. There are still a few places left - visit www.businessinasia.co.uk for more details."

More than 100 businesses from in and around the region are already signed up to attend. Graham Cartledge, Chairman of award winning Newark-based architects, Benoy, will be one of the keynote speakers.

The event takes place at the Barcelo Hinckley Island Hotel, Watling Street, Hinckley and costs £75 + VAT. A special rate is also available for members of UKTI partner organisations. For more details and to book a place visit www.businessinasia.co.uk