According to a recent article in the Guardian's Business section, the UK is facing the biggest trade deficit since modern records began 15 years ago.
There have been calls for the government to provide more help for exporters struggling to cope with weakening global demand for their products. David Kern, the BCC's chief economist, said: "British exporters have untapped potential to expand, but they need more government support to help them compete globally and diversify towards growing markets outside the EU."
There's no doubt it sounds tough out there at the moment, so we're wondering how you are faring when it comes to trading internationally? In this open thread, we are looking to explore your attitudes towards exporting, and your plans for the future in the current climate.
Tell us - where do you currently export to? What markets do you think have potential right now? What do you think could help your small businesses compete on a global level? Have you noticed a fall in demand?
And if you don't export - why not? Does it not suit your offering at the moment? Have you been put off by the eurozone crisis and tricky conditions elsewhere?
Share your experiences in the comments section below.
And last but not least, if you do export do take the time to submit your entry to the exporting category of our Best Practice Exchange competition. Submit 250 words telling us what you've been doing to export successfully - all entries that meet the criteria will be published online.
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We'd love to hear your views and thoughts in the comments but please remember not to disclose personal identifiable details.
