Infrastructure Exports: UK (IE:UK)
Infrastructure Exports: UK (IE:UK) is a partnership between the Department for International Trade (DIT) and leading UK infrastructure firms. It was established in July 2017 in response to the failure of UK companies to compete with large international companies. It brings together companies of all sizes as ‘Team UK’ consortia to bid for global infrastructure contracts and deliver complex projects.
The industry-led body will pursue infrastructure projects with government support to increase UK infrastructure exports and identify gaps in the supply chain for foreign direct investment to fill. It decides which projects to pursue and how to bring smaller companies into the infrastructure export supply chain and supports UK exporters by:
- Selecting, and targeting, projects and markets.
- Participating in, and helping form UK partnerships to deliver projects.
- Scoping new markets and deciding on prioritisation.
- Creating an innovative capability demonstrator that highlights UK expertise.
- Identifying gaps in the existing UK supply chain.
DIT support IE:UK with its network of local staff, identifying important projects in their areas for consideration. Activities are co-resourced between industry and government, supported by a government-funded project management office. IE:UK meets 3 times a year, co-chaired by the Minister of State for International Trade, and a senior industry representative.
At its launch, Trade minister Greg Hands said; “Global infrastructure investment is set to increase rapidly in the coming years and we must make sure UK firms are in prime position to take advantage of it. Our ‘Team UK’ approach will bring together leading UK infrastructure companies to showcase their expertise on a global scale and work together to successfully bid for the biggest contracts.”
Co-chair James Wates, Chair of Wates Group, said; “This is a timely, fresh and strategic approach. The UK has a wealth of expertise in developing major infrastructure projects. This is a great opportunity for business to work together, alongside the government, to target overseas projects, as many countries around the world plan to develop their physical infrastructure to support their own economic growth.”
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