Also in the news...
Paul Beare Wins IR Global Member Of The Year
Paul Beare has been named Member of the Year at this year’s IR Global Conference in Amsterdam.
The Biggest Problem With Running A UK Payroll
We explore the biggest problem with running a UK payroll, together with the required functions of payroll calculations and net salary.
Taking It For Granted: How The UK Government Helps Growing Firms
In the UK, a number of government agencies offer a range of grants to help smaller firms to grow and prosper. The grants are typically designed to support innovation, encourage job creation, and underpin growth. In the last few years, a number of new initiatives have emerged, including grants aimed at boosting green technology and digital transformation.
Start-ups Wasting Over 2 Weeks And £37 Billion A Year On Admin
UK start-ups and microbusinesses are wasting over two working weeks every year on admin tasks, including managing mobile phone contracts, choosing energy providers, and buying insurance – according to new research.
The Costs For International Businesses Employing In The UK
In an ever-globalising business landscape, expanding operations to the United Kingdom can be a strategic move for international companies seeking new opportunities.
UK targets Brazilian market for automotive sector growth
Business Secretary confirms the opening of a new Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) office in Sao Paulo
British businesses in the automotive sector were given a boost today when the Business Secretary confirmed the opening of a new Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) office in Sao Paulo. The VCA office will allow manufacturers in the auto sector to export more easily to emerging markets in South America.
Automotive exports from the UK are at an all time high, with 5 out of every 6 cars produced in the UK being exported. Brazil has been identified as an important growth market for the sector.
The government is determined to build on the success of the automotive sector and is aiming to publish its automotive strategy in the summer. Ahead of this, the government has taken the decision to open a Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) office in Sao Paulo, the first to be opened in Latin America. VCA offices support the automotive industry by verifying that cars and parts imported into local markets from the UK and elsewhere, comply with EU Directives and Regulations, as well as UN environmental and safety standards. The VCA office in Brazil will also allow manufacturers based locally to export from Brazil to the wider region, opening up new markets and further benefiting the UK economy.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said:
I want to make it as easy as possible for the automotive manufacturers to export to emerging markets.
UK manufacturers are planning to more than double their sales in Brazil in the coming years. By opening a VCA office in Sao Paulo we can make sure exports are not being held up unnecessarily.
Mike Baunton, Interim Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said:
We are delighted the UK government is taking steps directly to support the export of UK built vehicles, particularly with Brazil being one of the growing global markets. Almost 15% of UK automotive exports go to the Americas but we expect exports to the region to grow as recently launched premium brands and advanced technology vehicles are increasingly sought by Brazilian motorists.
The VCA is already providing safety certification services for automotive components, working with the Brazilian Transport Ministry. It is also in discussions with the Brazilian Environmental Ministry to explore how it can provide additional services, such as providing certification on environmental standards and emissions.
Eleven of the world’s global vehicle manufacturers are based in Britain and 74% of all cars and commercial vehicles manufactured in Britain are exported. Britain is also a world leader for engine production with 2.5 million units produced in 2012 by companies including Ford, Toyota, BMW, Honda, Nissan, Perkins and JCB. 62% of UK engine production was exported in 2012.
The VCA office in Sao Paulo will also open up wider markets for UK manufacturers as countries such as Argentina and Chile base their environmental and safety regulations heavily on the Brazilian legislation.