BUSINESS people are being offered the chance to learn how to secure trade with companies in one of the world's fastest growing economies.

Trade opportunities in India will come under the spotlight at the next meeting of Cumbria Export Club next week.

The event is aiming to show how India, now the sixth largest economy in the world, offers huge potential as an export market to small and medium sized firms.

Among the speakers will be David Hawkins, a private sector business advisor with Trade Partners UK, who will offer expertise on India's health care and biotechnology industries as well as give an overview of business opportunities across all sectors.

Key markets are said to include automotive, agri-business, education and training, environment, financial services, health care, information and communication technology, recreation and leisure, creative industries and the safety and security sectors.

Donald Cameron, managing director of Penrith firm Primasonics International Ltd, will also share his experience of how best to break into the fast-developing Indian market.

The firm, which designs and sells a range of acoustic cleaners for use in a wide range of processing industries, has researched, appointed an agent, visited and made its first sale in India over the last 18 months.

Mr Cameron, whose firm has received support from Trade Partners UK, will explain how Primasonics achieved this and offer practical advice for those wanting to follow in his path.

Cumbria Export Club secretary Ian Readman said India was once dismissed as a difficult and unrewarding market, but times had changed.

"Major reforms have swept away many obstacles to overseas trade, bolstered India's economy and opened it up to foreign investment.

"Our two speakers will give an insightful guide to India and its diverse sectors, highlighting the pitfalls to avoid and the financial and practical support available to win business there."

The Cumbria Export Club meeting takes place at the Rural Enterprise Centre, Redhills, Penrith, on Wednesday, May 14, starting at 5.30pm.

The event costs £10 per delegate and includes a buffet.

For more details, ring Mr Readman on 01228-613243 or email ireadman@business linkcumbria.co.uk.

May 8, 2003 13:30