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.”
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.