Chamber set to lead Yorkshire trade mission

A Yorkshire business network is preparing to explore new international opportunities.

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce is set to lead its largest trade mission to date, taking a delegation of regional firms to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain between November 9 and 14.

The mission will see companies from technology, education, professional services and manufacturing sectors travel to Jeddah, Riyadh and Bahrain to explore trade opportunities and build relationships with local businesses.

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has signed up as the headline sponsor, supporting the Chamber in its effort to strengthen Yorkshire’s international trade links.

Vincent Hodder, chief executive of LBA, said: “We’re right in the middle of an exciting transformational journey here at LBA, so we welcomed the opportunity to be involved in this unique mission with the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce to showcase everything that makes Yorkshire stand out to potential new markets. 

“Our Vision 2030 strategy highlights our ambitions to secure more routes and destinations for our passengers, so we’re really looking forward to visiting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to discuss the work we’ve been doing to transform our airport and explore new opportunities.”  

The visit follows on from previous successful missions to the United Arab Emirates and the United States, with additional trade missions planned for 2026. 

James Mason, chief executive of West & North Yorkshire Chamber, added: “At a time when the cost of doing business is so high, it is more important than ever to explore new avenues for doing business. 

“We asked our members where they would like to see a trade mission arranged for and Saudi Arabia and Bahrain were a clear standout.  

“We look forward to welcoming all of our delegates and are grateful to Leeds Bradford Airport for signing up as lead sponsor as it seeks to increase the number of routes it serves globally.” 

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