Special Interest Groups

Providing professional resources and guidance for importers, exporters, businesses and brands trading internationally.

We are proud to bring you Special Interest Groups, our unique online and in-person groups where you can get exclusive access to professional points of contact, resources and learning support on key themes, topics and procedures impacting you and your business.

What can you expect?

  • Expert-led virtual meetings: Join fellow members in your industry for engaging sessions led by one of the Chartered Institute's subject matter experts.

  • Professional support & best practices: Share your experiences and receive valuable insights, practical advice, and support on industry opportunities and challenges.

  • Facilitated discussions: Participate in focused discussions on the latest trends and key issues impacting your industry.

  • Networking opportunities: Connect with peers, build strong professional relationships, and expand your network within the industry.

  • Influence and feedback: Provide your insights and experiences directly to the Chartered Institute’s leadership team, contributing to our ongoing conversations with government and shaping future initiatives.
Teams

Who can attend?

If you wish to join our Special Interest Groups, and network with fellow professionals, you must first become a member of the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade.

Our members are free to join any of our Special Interest Groups and benefit from exclusive discounts and free events.

Join our Special Interest Groups

Member exclusive SIG Thumbnails Export Controls

Export Controls

Be part of this exclusive group covering everything to do with export controls compliance including Defence, Aerospace and New Technologies.

Member exclusive SIG Thumbnails Manufacturing

Manufacturing

Be part of this exclusive group covering everything to do with manufacturing including Automotive, Engineering and Pharma.

Member exclusive SIG Thumbnails Food And Drink

Food & Drink

Be part of this exclusive group covering everything to do with trading Food and Drink globally.

Member exclusive Adobestock 213647350

Customs

Be part of this exclusive group covering everything to do with the Customs sector.

Member exclusive Borders

Borders, Ports & Logistics

Be part of this exclusive group covering everything to do with Borders, Ports & Logistics.

What our members have to say

Export controls
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The export controls special interest group (SIG) was a good session. I’m looking forward to more as they really help me, particularly as I am in an isolated role in my organisation.

Jill Briggs Service Manager, Trade Control at AQUILA Chartered Institute Large business member
IOE Chartered Crest 456X456px

I really enjoyed peeling off into small groups where I could see and talk to likeminded people who are all going through the same issues as myself... There’s some comfort in knowing you’re not alone!

Sue Hendry Export Coordinator Full member of the Chartered Institute
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I work very closely with our importers on each market to make sure that we know beforehand the best value we can get to continue moving our goods.

We haven’t lost out in terms of exports and that’s down to doing our homework.

It’s involved a combination of liaising closely with our distributors, to understand country-specific customs requirements, and also attending webinars from the Chartered Institute.

Adriana Santos Head of International at The Tracklement Co. Ltd. Full member of the Chartered Institute

Upcoming sessions

Artboart Member exclusive
25 February, 2025

Export Control Special Interest Group

Online Only
Adobestock 756266546 Member exclusive
25 February, 2025

Food and Drink Special Interest Group Session 7

Online Only
Adobestock 213647350 Member exclusive
26 February, 2025

Modernising Customs Special Interest Group session 2

Online Only
Adobestock 499354108 Member exclusive
06 May, 2025

Borders, Ports & Logistics Special Interest Group (6 May 2025)

Online Only
Insights

Past discussions

Member exclusive Businessmeeting2
15 May, 2024

Export control SIG: Five key tips on export controls and sanctions compliance

Member exclusive Sanctions2
05 February, 2024

What is the government’s planned new export licensing system and when is it coming in?

Member exclusive export_controls
01 November, 2023

IOE&IT export controls special interest group offers US insights

Read more