In 2014 what does being a member of the Institute of Export bring you and your business –

• Credibility
• Knowledge
• Profitability
• Keeping up-to-date
• Sustainability
• Information
• Skills
• Competency

Building on these in 2014, we are introducing some significant new steps forward

• The first major project for 2014 is to develop a Members Directory that will enable all our members to demonstrate their level of understanding and their skillset in international trade. This will be available after Easter and we would ask that all members take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their skills and also help our researchers as they compile the directory.

• The next major project is to provide more support for our members who want to meet and create branches across the country. This will be generated through our Council so please do get involved and engage with your local Council member – and if there isn’t one in your region please consider getting involved yourself. Information will be circulated regularly so watch out for ways to join in.

• Our lobbying work will gain momentum in 2014 with the Professionalism in International Trade concept being translated into telephone and email surveys of five questions each quarter. This will enable you all to have a voice in matters that face you as you trade internationally each day. More details of this will be sent to you in mid-February.

• And finally, our education and training programmes grow from strength to strength with our Diploma in World Customs Compliance and Regulation launched last quarter and a drive to take our programmes across the world into new markets.

Being a part of this drive toward professionalism has never been more important and we need your views and ideas to make sure we always represent you appropriately and earnestly.  The IOE is your professional body and we want you to use it and see it as a springboard for your own trading success.

Good luck to all in 2014 – it’s going to be a great year for exporting!