A new international trade centre aimed at helping small and medium-sized firms is to open in Essex.

The Essex Trade Centre, based in County Hall, Chelmsford, will put companies in touch with an extensive network of contacts in Europe and further afield.

Essex County Council, which launches the centre today, says it will provide a unique range of services, including introductions to potential trading partners and to people with first-hand knowledge of overseas markets.

There will also be information and advice on European tenders, EU policies and funding programmes.

The authority is working with Essex Chambers of Commerce, Trade Partners UK, Business Link Essex and other organisations.

Published Thursday, February 21, 2002