Two new Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioners (HMTCs) have today been
appointed by International Trade Secretary , to play a
crucial role in attracting inward investment and helping British
businesses seize export opportunities throughout Europe and
Central Asia.
Working closely with the wider diplomatic network and other UK
Government colleagues in their region, the new HMTCs will lead on
a coordinated government effort overseas to promote UK trade,
delivering jobs and prosperity for the UK economy.
Chris Barton, previously Acting Director General of Trade
Negotiations at DIT, has been appointed as HMTC for Europe.
Deputy HMTC for Europe, Kenan Poleo, becomes HMTC for Eastern
Europe and Central Asia Network (EECAN).
International Trade Secretary,
said:
“As an independent trading nation, our relationships with our
closest trading partner Europe and with Central Asia remain
extremely important. We are working hard to promote Britain as a
top investment destination – particularly in future-facing
industries like science, tech and the green economy - and help
British exporters access new markets.
“I’m delighted to welcome Chris and Kenan as Her Majesty’s Trade
Commissioners. They bring proven expertise and a wealth of
knowledge to help British businesses succeed in this new trading
landscape and take advantage of new opportunities as we strike
trade agreements.”
Kenan Poleo, HM Trade Commissioner for EECAN,
said:
“I am honoured to be appointed Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioner
for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Countries across this
dynamic region continue to diversify their economies into areas
where the UK excels, such as technology and clean growth.
“My key priority will be to support British businesses in
realising the opportunities this diversification provides through
dialogue and collaboration around market access, innovation and
the key global challenges we share.
“With GDP per capita across the region set to maintain its upward
trajectory for the foreseeable future, my teams are primed to
guide businesses on how to strengthen their investment and export
horizons into these exciting, growing markets.”
Chris Barton, HM Trade Commissioner for Europe,
said:
“I am delighted to be appointed as Her Majesty’s Trade
Commissioner for Europe. Europe accounts for half of UK exports
and is our largest source of inward investment. Ratification of
the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, alongside new FTAs
with other European countries, provides a strong basis for
further opportunities.
“It is my job to build on these firm foundations, encouraging
trade and investment between the UK and other European countries
by reducing barriers to UK trade in Europe, helping UK businesses
to export to Europe, attracting inward investment from Europe,
and championing the rules-based international trading system with
Europe.
“I look forward to working with colleagues, friends and partners
across Europe in delivering this exciting agenda.”
ENDS
About HMTCs
All HMTCs cooperate closely with HM Ambassadors and High
Commissioners, the wider diplomatic network, and other HM
Government colleagues based in countries in their region, in a
joined-up and coordinated government effort overseas to promote
UK trade and prosperity.
In total, there are 9 geographical areas that the HM Trade
Commissioners cover:
- Africa
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- Eastern Europe and Central Asia Network
- Europe
- Latin America
- Middle East
- North America
- South Asia
