Last week, the Inverness Chamber of Commerce International Trade team were in Lille, connecting with key organisations, professional advisers, business representatives and UK companies already navigating the French market.
The purpose of the visit was simple: to better understand what it really takes for Scottish businesses to export to, establish themselves in and invest in Lille and the wider Hauts-de-France region.
Lille’s strategic location, close to Belgium and the wider European market, makes it an interesting proposition for Scottish businesses looking to develop their European presence. However, entering a new market requires more than identifying an opportunity – businesses need to understand the practicalities and that’s where our partnership with UKBC Lille adds value.
Our programme included discussions with CIC Banque Nord Ouest on banking and setting up a French account, Triplet Avocat on company formation, Lille Legal on immigration and work permits, Cerdic Legal on employment law and RM Boulanger on fiscal representation and VAT compliance. These conversations highlighted some of the key considerations Scottish businesses need to understand before taking the next step into the French market.
A particular highlight was the roundtable, where we heard directly from UK businesses and market experts about the realities of operating in France. With contributions from Chris Murray MP, UK Trade Envoy to France and Baroness Janke, the discussion provided valuable insight into both the challenges and opportunities that UK businesses face.
The team had the chance visit and tour the Port of Dunkirk, gaining a valuable first-hand overview of the logistics infrastructure supporting northern France and the potential opportunities for Scottish businesses looking to trade with the region.
Perhaps our biggest takeaway from the visit is that doing business internationally is about more than understanding regulations. It is about people, relationships and having the right conversations.
Visits like this allow Inverness Chamber of Commerce to build relationships with the organisations and experts that Scottish businesses may need when entering a new market. Our role is to help connect businesses, open doors and turn international opportunities into practical next steps.
If your business is considering France as its next international market, or you would like to find out more about our visit and how we can support your international trade journey, please get in touch by emailing international@inverness-chamber.co.uk