Local firms are being urged to learn more about Arabic language
and culture to boost their export chances.
Business Arabic for beginners is being held on Friday 9 December
at the Yew Lodge Hotel, Kegworth, and is open to all companies with
an interest in doing business with the Middle East.
This training - part of an ongoing programme of language and
culture events organised by UK Trade & Investment East Midlands
- follows a recent survey by HSBC which revealed that language and
cultural capability were among the main skills Midlands firms felt
they needed in order to trade successfully overseas.
The session will cover things like meeting and greeting,
negotiation techniques, tips on maintaining good business
relationships and key words and phrases.
Suzannah Hutton, UK Trade & Investment's language and
culture adviser for the East Midland, said:
"Last quarter's trade stats showed that the Middle East is one
of the East Midlands' top export markets. This Arabic business
seminar will put local companies in an even stronger position to
win new contracts.
"Being aware of cultural etiquette and language can go a long
way when dealing with potential clients in this area and the recent
HSBC research shows that more and more firms are recognising that
these are key skills to help them export."
Businesses can put their skills into practice on a market visit
to the United Arab Emirates, run by UK Trade & Investment and
Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce, from 24
February to 2 March 2012.
Suzannah added:
"The UAE in particular has a huge range of opportunities for
local firms due to its growing infrastructure, including a new rail
link planned between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
"This is why UK Trade & Investment and Derbyshire and
Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce are inviting local firms to
sign up to a market visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next
February; to help companies new to this market make contacts via
face to face meetings and help them find a local representative
and/or local partner to help their business grow."
The cost for the Business Arabic for Beginners seminar is
£30 per delegate (+VAT) or free for those participating in
Passport to Export or Gateway to Global Growth schemes. To reserve
a place contact: lilly.clements@uktiem.co.uk or 01332 826420.
To register your interest in the UAE market visit, taking place
between 24 February- 2 March 2012, or for more information contact
jodey.adams@dncc.co.uk or 01246 207207