UK expertise and experience is respected around the world, and British business is frequently seen as a global partner of choice. We know success in today’s high-technology sector is increasingly dependent on choosing the right partner to share skills, risk and exchange knowledge. By working together, businesses can realise opportunities that would be beyond their grasp individually. This is particularly the case in the UK’s emerging sectors such as life sciences, nanotechnology and environmental technologies.

As a world-renowned centre for innovation and research, the UK is an excellent place for pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Talented entrepreneurs and multinational companies are attracted to the UK for the quality of our research; the strong links between universities, research institutes and industry; by geographic clusters of high-tech companies; the ability to raise finances, particularly venture capital; and by our excellent quality of life.

US companies looking to start up or to expand their business interests here or in Europe will find UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) a valued partner. We are the government organisation that supports both companies in the UK trading internationally, and overseas’ enterprises seeking to locate in the UK. Our role is to help companies realise their international business potential through knowledge transfer and on-going partnership support. Our position within government, in-depth knowledge of UK regional business and a global network make us a unique strategic resource – one that we can tailor to your individual needs.

We offer practical advice for US companies seeking to locate in the UK, such as how to apply for entry clearance, obtain a work permit, and form a company. UKTI also offers detailed information on company taxation and what assistance is available to small businesses. After a foreign company has invested in the UK, it is treated exactly like a domestic business and is equally able to use UKTI’s services to expand its UK business overseas.

In the last financial year (2003-2004), the UK received more than 320 investments from the US, creating 10,700 new jobs and safeguarding over 14,000. Recent major investments include Hartford Life, which announced its new premises at Canary Wharf, London, which is likely to create 150 jobs. In addition, Citigroup has opened a new operation in Northern Ireland, which is likely to create 375 highly-skilled jobs.

In 2003, the UK’s imports of goods and services from the US amounted to £36.3bn, and our exports to the US £50.9bn. Foreign Direct Investment from the US is £143tn. The US remains the leading destination for British overseas investment, which means that we are the largest investors in each other’s economies.

UKTI values its association with BritishAmerican Business Inc, and we look forward to continuing to work together to assist the transatlantic business community.

Sir Stephen Brown is Chief Executive of UK Trade & Investment, the government organisation that supports both companies in the UK trading internationally and overseas enterprises seeking to locate in the UK