16 February 2008; Sir Andrew Cahn, Chief Executive of UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) spoke to Dominican businesses today as part of his two day visit to the Dominican Republic.  This is the first time that a high ranking UK business official has visited the country.

His organisation, UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), is the UK government’s international business development organisation. It helps UK-based companies gain access to overseas markets – supporting their success in an increasingly global economy. UKTI also assists foreign based firms wanting to use the UK as a base to expand globally.

Sir Andrew was guest speaker at a British Chamber of Commerce business breakfast.  Speaking to an audience from Government and the Dominican business community, he highlighted business opportunities in the UK, the expertise of British companies and how it can contribute to Dominican business success, and how the Trade Section of the British Embassy in Santo Domingo can assist UK-Dominican commerce.

During his speech he suggested that “the Dominican Republic should see UK companies as potential business partners that would contribute to the development of the country.”  He emphasised the UK’s expertise power & renewable energy, construction, railways, mining, agriculture, ports and oil/gas, as well as legal, financial and insurance services, tourism and food and drink.

Focusing on the power sector he said, “The UK's power equipment service sector is one of the most vigorous and innovative world-wide. This is just one area of opportunity for the UK and Dominican Republic to drive commercial success through asset management services, carbon abatement & pollution control technologies, professional advisory services, civil nuclear power, carbon management services and renewable energy.

 “And of course there are the more leisurely sectors like tourism and hospitality. I see that UK companies are also working with you in whisky and rum,”

Sir Andrew also spoke about the need to adapt to change – particularly in the current economic climate. “Globalisation has transformed the business environment", he said.  "Business change requires good leadership and a willingness to see globalisation as an opportunity, not a threat.  Leaders need to take risks, trust their judgement and also provide their workforce with the skills necessary to embrace change".  Sir Andrew stated that "business can’t change in isolation.  It requires support from government".

Across its network UK Trade & Investment has trade offices in the five continents with their highly-qualified business specialists located within UK embassies, high commissions and consulates, and in the nine English regions. 

Speaking of his organisation, Sir Andrew said, “UKTI has a wealth of knowledge that Dominican businesses can tap into to target business opportunities. From our trade team in Santo Domingo to specialists with local knowledge in the English regions, their expertise and advice is invaluable to companies looking to work internationally.”

During his visit, Sir Andrew met with high-level government officials as well as with representatives of UK companies established in the Dominican market.