The Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade’s head of membership, Sophie Tothill, previews the week ahead for members, including events, webinars, recent news affecting traders and the exclusive resources the Chartered Institute offers members.
In-person events
Our Import Export Show 2024 will be held in London on Tuesday 3 December. The second Import Export Show brings together senior figures from the global trade community, including key business leaders and policymakers, to discuss how trade can deliver for the UK.
Tickets for the event can still be bought here.
The International Trade Awards will also take place as part of the Import Export Show. Nominations have now closed, and our judges are reviewing entries across the eight categories.
Next week (21 October), we are also launching the Wales Member Forum. The event forms part of our broader Devolved Nation Forums programme, which provides a place for our Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish members to meet and build a strong local network.
Our members can sign up here.
Connect online
We are excited to launch the first Borders, Ports, and Logistics SIG on Wednesday (16 October), facilitated by our sector leads. This is a valuable opportunity to network with peers in this important industry, discuss the challenges and opportunities you’re encountering, and connect directly with experts from the Chartered Institute.
Additionally, we will be re-launching the Manufacturing SIG on Wednesday (16 October) with a new interactive format that enables members to come together and shape the direction of these supportive communities.
Learning opportunities
In response to member feedback, we have recently launched an extended SIG programme of events to provide members with networking and collaboration opportunities. This will enable our members to come together and share case studies, successes and challenges in a supportive forum of peers.
We are also hosting a virtual event in November to mark National Mentoring Day: Mentoring Matters. Applications are now open to become both a mentor and mentee. To find out more or to sign up, visit our website.
We are particularly encouraging applications from mentors who can offer support and guidance to a fellow member, and give back to our global community of trade professionals.
On your mind
Last week, members shared feedback directly with us at the pair of events we hosted.
The Chartered Institute’s members said they wanted more resources to help them navigate the evolving landscape of border control regulations, with regular updates to stay informed on key industry changes.
The BTOM Compliance Toolkit is your one-stop-shop for everything related to the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), and includes a regular feed of border news updates.
Even among those with decades of experience in the customs and trade business, members recognised the complexity of new regulations, particularly regarding country of origin rules and material origin percentages, and said they are seeking guidance in these areas.
Members also emphasised the importance of the Chartered Institute providing more proactive, tailored communications on HMRC regulations, import/export requirements, and export control. All of this would help them stay ahead in managing compliance and fostering professional growth, they suggested.