Small exporters in the manufacturing sector are finding expansion difficult because of high levels of red tape, according to new research.
This is according to a new survey by the Federation of Small Businesss (FSB), which has urged the government to help exporters with "well-targeted initiatives".
The FSB has found that nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of its members export goods but current government figures show that only ten per cent of exports are sold by small firms.
More than half (59 per cent) of the firms surveyed export manufactured goods, while 42 per cent export services.
Commenting on the findings, the FSB's policy chairman Mike Cherry said: ""Manufacturing and defence are two sectors which offer big opportunities for small firms to export, but more effectively targeted information on the support that is already available is vital if small businesses are to be successful."
The report revealed that more than eight in ten (87 per cent) exported to European countries, with the US constituting the second biggest trading partner (45 per cent).
Mr Cherry's comments follow the announcement by business secretary Vince Cable that the government is to stop "gold-plating" European legislation and instead consult with businesses to improve the implementation
process.
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the process systems, process engineering and manufacturing processes industry includes; heavy duty conveyors-industrial conveyors – belt conveyors
