2026 agenda
Setting out the big picture

9:45 - 9:50
Opening of the conference 

The day’s host, William Barns-Graham, head of content at the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, will set out the running order of the day.

9:50 - 10:00
Welcome address from the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade’s director general, Marco Forgione

Marco will explore the conference’s themes of building resilience, navigating uncertainty and securing growth.

10:00 - 10:15 
Opening keynote: Building resilience in global trade

Learn how governments and businesses are working together to build greater resilience in global trade – unlock strategic insights to inform your 2027 planning.

10:15 - 11:00
Panel: Shared responsibility - rethinking resilience in trade

The complex and interconnected global supply chain involves various parties across multiple jurisdictions. Hear senior perspectives on how responsibility is shifting across business, government and supply chains - and how this will affect your 2027 planning.

11:00 – 11:30
Coffee and networking break

Meet your fellow conference delegates and build valuable connections over coffee.

Tackle today's biggest trade challenges

11:30 – 12:30
Interactive breakout sessions: Navigating uncertainty

Together, we'll address real operational challenges in a world of regulatory change and geopolitical uncertainty.

These interactive discussions will cover the main challenges faced by businesses and professionals working in international trade, from supply chain resilience to customs reforms to the increasing importance of export controls.

12:30 – 13:30
Lunch and networking

Connect with peers, leading voices and old friends over a complimentary lunch and refreshments.
Turn insight into action

13:30 – 14:30 
Practical breakout sessions: Securing growth

 

Turn insight into action by understanding how technological advancements and best practice on compliance can improve operational efficiency and support trade growth.

These practical workshops will delve into the main opportunities that traders can seize in 2027, from AI and trade digitalisation to enhanced customs processes.

14:30 – 15:00
Networking and coffee break

Continue the day’s conversations with fellow delegates over afternoon refreshments.
Learn what's next for UK trade

15:00 – 15:45 
Panel: How can the UK achieve a secure growth breakthrough?

Benefit from hearing leading policymakers and exporters discuss what needs to happen next - and where the real opportunities lie for UK businesses.

15:45 – 16:05 
Closing keynote: Securing growth in 2027 and beyond

Leave with a clear understanding of how to apply the day’s insights to your organisation’s growth strategy.

16:05 – 16:15
Closing remarks

 
Connect with your peers

16:15 – 18:00

Afternoon drinks and networking reception

Continue conversations from the day with fellow delegates, leaders and businesses. This is your opportunity to make the connections that really matter – exchange insights, learn and identify practical solutions for your international trade success.

Early-bird tickets available now

When

Date: Tuesday 17 November 2026

Time: Registration from 8:30am GMT | Conference 9:45am - 6:00pm GMT

Location: QEII Centre, Broad Sanctuary, London, SW1P 3EE

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Early-bird offer* - ends 3:00pm BST on 18 September 2026

Early bird - Chartered Institute member price: £145 + VAT
Standard member price: £245 + VAT

Early bird - Non-member price: £195 + VAT
Standard non-member price: £295 + VAT

Team discount - Save 10% when you purchase 5 or more tickets. For group bookings, please email us at [email protected]

*Our early-bird offer is limited to the first 100 tickets sold. It is available until 18 September or until allocated early‑bird tickets sell out - whichever comes first.

Book your tickets now

Our exclusive banking sponsor

Natwest

Our strategic partners and show exhibitors

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 Is the Empowering Global Trade Conference 2026 for you?

The Empowering Global Trade Conference 2026 is open to all businesses and professionals in international trade. Some examples of who would benefit from attending this event are below.

Who should attend

  • Director of International Trade
  • International Business Development Director
  • Head of Global Trade Compliance
  • Import/Export Director
  • Trade Compliance Director
  • Head of Customs and Excise
  • Head of Sales/Marketing
  • Senior Policy Advisor (Trade/Customs)
  • Senior Trade Analyst
  • Director of Supply Chain & Logistics
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Business Owner

Your competitive advantage

Gain early insight into policy changes, connect directly with policymakers and industry leaders, and shape your company’s trade strategy. 

Strengthen your market position, reduce exposure to regulatory shifts and lead with confidence into 2027.

Who should attend

  • Customs Compliance Manager or Officer
  • International Trade Advisor
  • Import Manager, Clerk or Operator
  • Export Manager, Clerk or Coordinator 
  • Trade Operations Manager
  • Customs & Trade Analyst
  • Sanctions Compliance Officer
  • International Business Development Manager
  • Export Sales Manager or Officer
  • Logistics & Trade Compliance Coordinator
  • Trade Procedures Manager
  • Import/Export Lead, Officer or Coordinator

Your competitive advantage

Access expert-led workshops and practical takeaways to improve compliance, streamline operations and adapt to evolving trade rules. 

Build your professional knowledge and network, enhance execution and gain a competitive edge by applying the latest trade insights before your peers.

Don't miss our limited early-bird ticket offer.

Sponsor or exhibit at the Empowering Global Trade Conference

Register your sponsor or exhibitor interest with our team and get ready to showcase your brand to 250+ professionals from across the supply chain, including C-suite leaders, policymakers and operational professionals.

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What our attendees are saying

Darren Wareing

It's a great opportunity to find out what's going on in the market.

Darren Wareing Head of Sales & Marketing, CORE (UK) Limited
Emmanuel Tei Tetteh

It's a great place for us to network and meet new people, and there's loads of like-minded individuals in this environment and it really does help us.

Emmanuel Tei-Tetteh Head of Sales, Phlo Systems Ltd