More small businesses showing the ambition to export, says FSB

Findings from the FSB's quarterly business index found that a net balance of 24 per cent of FSB members expect exports to rise in the next three months. The survey of nearly 9,000 small businesses found that the sectors most likely to export are manufacturing (42%), wholesale trade (41%), research and development (36%), engineering (34%) and digital/telecoms businesses (25%). The FSB said: "With the UK's current account deficit reaching an all time high at the end of 2013, it's more important than ever to narrow the export gap and small firms have a key part to play. To encourage and support more firms to export, the FSB wants UKTI to focus on tailoring and promoting their products and services to small and micro businesses and to raise awareness of the support on offer." It added: "Even among members who currently export, only 50% are aware of the services UKTI offers. In the longer term this would involve a move towards a Small Business Export Support Department within a UK Small Business Administration (SBA)." FSB national chairman John Allan said: "Small businesses will have a major part to play if the government is to meet its challenging targets for 100,000 new exporters and to double the value of exports by 2020. Starting to export is a big step for small firms. They therefore need tailored advice and support which will allow them to overcome the barriers to exporting that have been repeatedly identified by our surveys. There is also a major job to be done to raise awareness of the support UKTI offers small firms thinking of starting the export journey."