A new Essex international trade centre is being hailed as the most advanced partnership between the public and private sector in the country.

The Essex Trade Centre (ETC) provides a range of services not available elsewhere for county businesses, including introductions to potential trading partners, overseas market advice, and information on European tenders, EU policies and funding programmes.

Working in partnership with Essex Chambers of Commerce, Trade Partners UK, Business Link Essex and other trade support organisations, the ETC provides complementary trade development services to open doors into markets.

Cllr Peter Martin, County Council cabinet member for planning, enterprise and regeneration, said the centre was pivotal in assisting small and medium-sized businesses in Essex to overcome obstacles to trade in the European Union, central and eastern Europe, China and the USA.

David Crozier, Chief Executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce, said: "There are a number of projects in the county which are crucial for Essex and which will draw on the strengths of public and private partnerships. The Essex Trade Centre is an important step in this process."

For more information, contact the ETC on 01245 437617, or email trade@essexccorg.uk.

Published Tuesday, March 5, 2002