One in four firms in the UK do not think they could successfully export any of their products abroad, according to new research.
A survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) found that half of all businesses polled were happy with trading in the UK.
More than a quarter (27 per cent) of firms did not export any products at all.
Over one in five (15 per cent) only made ten per cent or under of their turnover from working with foreign partners.
The BCC's director-general David Frost urged the government and enterprises to recover their export spirit.
He commented that the government needs to "think manufacturing in everything that it does to ensure 2011 is a year for growth for UK industry".
In addition, businesses should also turn to "export opportunities", especially those in the major developing economies.
A separate survey earlier this month from the Federation of Small Businesses urged the government to consider stripping away red tape to improve the chances of smaller exporters.
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the process systems, process engineering and manufacturing processes industry includes; heavy duty conveyors-industrial conveyors – belt conveyors
