INVERCLYDE Chamber of Commerce is to lead a groundbreaking transatlantic trade mission forging exciting new links with South America.

The local business body is joining the International Trade Partnership, a tie-up between the Scottish Government and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce network.

This partnership supports Scottish firms to grow their business internationally, with ICC joining the programme for the first time in June as it delivers a virtual trade mission to Colombia.

The programme is being led by experienced international business development specialist Diana Peralta, who has joined the ICC team to deliver its ambitious plans to support local and national businesses.

Diana, who comes from Colombia’s capital Bogotá, made Scotland her home in 2008 and has since worked with several businesses across the public and private sector.

ICC is leading the Scottish Network’s first commercial mission to South America, to Diana’s homeland of Colombia, on June 2.

It will seek to maximise opportunities in Colombia for businesses, encourage exports of products and services, and strengthen business links with the country.

Diana said: “It is wonderful to be working with Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce to help support the ambitious aims of the ICC board to install a local international trade programme.

“While we can’t travel currently, the virtual mission provides a fantastic way for businesses to meet, network and support their growth aims without the physical travel or cost.

“Colombia has some key sectors for growth which include renewables, food and drink and infrastructure, and a strong British network available to support businesses entering the market."

George McKay, chief executive of Inverclyde Chamber, added: “It is a great coup for us to be leading the first South American trade mission and we expect to see a high level of interest from businesses across Scotland.

“Inverclyde has a rich and proud history of international trade and while recent decades have seen this decline, we believe this is a fantastic way to support the future growth of our companies internationally.

“I encourage all of our members and local companies to get involved and learn more about how our international programme can support their business aims.”

ICC is also looking to host further trade missions to Spain in September and Miami Beach in 2022 as the programme grows.

An introductory online seminar is being held on April 28 at 2pm, for interested businesses to learn more about the trade mission to Colombia and how to take part.

To sign up for visit: https://iccinternationalbusinesschat.eventbrite.co.uk