South Yorkshire International Trade Conference 2026

Description

The 2026 South Yorkshire International Trade Conference (SYITC) is back!

International trade has never presented greater opportunity, or greater complexity. From new Free Trade Agreements and emerging global markets to geopolitical uncertainty, changing regulations and evolving global supply chains, businesses need the right knowledge, connections and support to grow with confidence.

Bringing together over 150 business leaders, exporters, trade professionals and international partners, the South Yorkshire International Trade Conference is the region's flagship event dedicated to helping businesses grow through international trade.

Whether you're already trading internationally, exporting professional services, manufacturing products for overseas markets, importing goods, or exploring international growth for the first time, this conference will provide practical insight, expert guidance and valuable connections to help your organisation succeed.

Conference Programme

The conference begins at 9:30am with a welcome from Sheffield International Trade Centre, before hearing from the British Chambers of Commerce on the latest global trade outlook and opportunities available through the Global Business Network (GBN).

We'll then be joined by Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire, who will share his vision for the region's international trade ambitions and economic growth priorities.

Throughout the day, delegates will hear from leading experts covering topics including:

• Unlocking opportunities across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
• Preparing for the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
• Expanding into Asia through Hong Kong.
• Making the most of the UK–India Free Trade Agreement.
• The geopolitical outlook for global trade and what it means for UK businesses.
• A panel discussion featuring King's Awards for Enterprise – International Trade winners, sharing their export journeys, lessons learned and practical advice.

The programme includes two dedicated networking and exhibition breaks, together with a networking lunch from 1:00pm, providing plenty of opportunity to meet fellow delegates, speakers and exhibitors.

The conference concludes at approximately 2:00pm.

More than a conference

Alongside the conference programme, delegates will have access to a dedicated International Trade Exhibition, bringing together organisations that provide specialist products, services and expertise to support businesses trading internationally.

From customs and compliance, freight and logistics, export finance and insurance, to banking, legal services, international market entry, government support and overseas market specialists, the exhibition offers the opportunity to discover practical solutions, ask questions and connect directly with organisations that can help your business grow internationally.

With extended networking breaks throughout the day and a dedicated networking lunch, delegates will have plenty of opportunity to meet exhibitors, exchange ideas, build new business relationships and connect with organisations from across South Yorkshire and beyond.

Why attend?

• Gain practical insight into the latest international trade opportunities and challenges.
• Hear directly from nationally recognised trade experts and policymakers.
• Understand how changing global markets and regulations could impact your organisation.
• Learn from businesses successfully exporting products and services around the world.
• Discover organisations that can support every stage of your international trade journey.
• Build valuable relationships with exporters, importers, advisers and international partners.
• Explore specialist products and services within the International Trade Exhibition.

Confirmed speakers include

• Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire
• Anne-Marie Martin, Director of Membership, British Chambers of Commerce
• Steven Lynch MBE, Director of International Trade, British Chambers of Commerce
• Eve Halliday, Customs Specialist, British Chambers of Commerce
• Nick Patrick, Director of International Trade, Sheffield International Trade Centre

Additional speakers will be announced over the coming weeks.

Who should attend?

This conference is designed for organisations that trade internationally today or are looking to develop their international ambitions, including those involved in the export or import of products or services.

It is suitable for:

• Manufacturers and engineering businesses.
• Professional, financial and legal service providers.
• Technology, digital and creative businesses.
• Education and training providers.
• Healthcare, life sciences and innovation-led organisations.
• Retail, wholesale and distribution businesses.
• Food, drink and consumer goods companies.
• Logistics, freight and supply chain organisations.
• Export, sales, commercial and business development professionals.
• Business owners, directors and senior decision-makers responsible for international growth.

Whether you're taking your first steps into international markets or expanding an established global operation, you'll leave with practical knowledge, valuable contacts and fresh ideas to help your organisation grow internationally.

Important Information

• The conference agenda, speakers and timings are correct at the time of publication but remain subject to change.
• To ensure the event delivers maximum value for delegates, Sheffield Chamber reserves the right to review registrations. Where a booking appears not to align with the intended audience, we may contact the individual or organisation to discuss the booking before confirming attendance.
• The exhibition is intended to showcase organisations that provide genuine products and services supporting international trade. Unauthorised sales or promotional activity outside of official exhibition packages is not permitted.