Press release

Secretary of State for Wales at Global Defence Expo

Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns will today tell Welsh Defence companies that the UK Government is ready to help them capitalise on new markets as we prepare for Brexit.

Speaking at Defence & Security Equipment International in London, (13 September) Alun Cairns will tell Defence companies based in Wales that there has never been a better time to increase their exports.

He will tell companies that Wales is already one of the most competitive places in the world to innovate, build business and deliver security, however leaving the European Union presents exciting opportunities for companies across the country.

Alun Cairns said:

Wales is already home to many global defence companies, who have demonstrated their success by securing major contracts in the face of competition from overseas. This is testament to the skills and expertise of the workforce in Wales and I am delighted to see so many Welsh export and defence companies of all sizes at such a world leading event.

Success is about turning chances into change, so I want these companies to seize this opportunity to explore new markets and discover the opportunities that exiting the EU presents.

The UK Government is committed to backing Welsh businesses and creating the right environment for them to flourish. We are here to support them on their exporting journey, helping them break down barriers and inspire confidence.

Over four days, the London based ‘Defence, Security Equipment International’ event, DSEI, attracts up to 34,000 visitors with a large exhibiting presence from Welsh based businesses. Meeting with companies such as BCB International, GD UK, Raytheon and smaller SMEs, the Secretary of State for Wales will reaffirm the close partnerships between the sector and show them how the UK Government can support them in exporting, identifying barriers and how they can be broken down ahead of Brexit.

The UK Government has produced an export guide for Welsh businesses, with full details of the support on offer for companies to export: LINK

Ends

Published 13 September 2017