Last year was a record-breaker for British exports

2019 was a record-breaking year for British exports, according to new figures published today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

UK companies exported £689 billion worth of goods and services across the globe – up by 5.0% on 2018. Goods exports to non-EU countries grew by 13.6% year on year.

“The UK is an exporting superpower and these new statistics show that UK companies are exporting record levels of goods and services,” said Secretary of State for International Trade, Liz Truss. “As a newly independent trading nation, we will strike new trade deals with key partners across the world, open up new markets and make it even easier for our businesses to meet global demand.”

The Government this week announced up to 10 new Freeports will open across the UK; hubs for business hope to ‘turbocharge’ Britain post-Brexit. Goods imported into a Freeport wouldn’t attract tariffs until they leave the hub and enter the domestic market, and no duty is payable if the goods are re-exported.

“Freeports represent a fantastic opportunity for our businesses to increase their trade with companies from all over the world,” said business secretary, Andrea Leadsom. “Not only will they help create jobs and level up the UK, but they underscore our commitment to championing global free trade – unleashing our country’s potential.”