Some of the Northern Powerhouse's most advanced manufacturing and innovation companies have travelled to China as part of a business delegation aiming to boost growing bilateral trade and investment ties.

Baroness Rona Fairhead, minister of state for trade and export promotion, together with Jake Berry, minister for the Northern Powerhouse, joined leaders from across the North representing the UK at the Chinese International Industrial Fair (CIIF), where Britain has been named Country of Honour.

With strong trade links between the two countries already, it is believed that there is ‘huge potential’ to strengthen this, particularly for smaller businesses in Yorkshire, the North East and the North West.

"UK exports to China are growing strongly, but it's clear that there is still vast untapped demand for British goods and services in the Chinese market,” commented Baroness Fairhead.

"The opportunities for growth are there, and we will continue to use trade missions not only to build the UK culture of exporting, but also to help businesses of all sizes forge ties and cultivate relationships with potential buyers and investors."

During his visit, Mr Berry, along with key members of the UK delegation, will attend the Northern Powerhouse Day which is being held by the CIIF.

"Northern Powerhouse businesses have so much to offer so it's fantastic to see them at this year's Chinese International Industrial Fair in Shanghai, demonstrating the strengths and opportunities for investment in the region," said Mr Berry.

"This trade mission represents an exciting opportunity for the UK and China to build on an already flourishing commercial relationship."

The CIIF is the flagship event for advanced manufacturing in China, welcoming more than 2,500 exhibitors and 160,000 visitors. It covers new energy vehicles, big data, robotics, aerospace and clean energy.

If you’re interested in exploring trading in China, come along to our next FREE ExportExchange breakfast event on Wednesday 29th November at The John Smith’s Stadium, Huddersfield Town FC, when businesses in the region which are already exporting to China will discuss the opportunities and possible pitfalls. Register here