Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has taken a major step to boost international trade opportunities for Suffolk businesses by signing a new partnership agreement with the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce (EBCC) at the prestigious British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Driving International Trade Conference in London.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of Sherif Kamel, Egyptian Ambassador to the UK, and other dignitaries, as Suffolk Chamber joined more than 30 other UK and international chambers, and over 400 businesses, at this national event. The partnership will strengthen trade between Suffolk and Egypt, opening doors for Suffolk firms to connect with Egyptian exporters and explore new markets.

The MoU was signed by Koyas Miah, Suffolk Chamber’s International Trade Manager, and Mark Lawrence, General Manager of the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce. This agreement is part of a wider initiative under the Egypt-UK Trade Accelerator Program, which is designed to match verified Egyptian exporters with UK buyers, helping to fill supply chain gaps, boost trade flows, and create new business opportunities for Suffolk Chamber members.

Suffolk Chamber on the national stage

The announcement was made alongside a series of high-profile speeches from BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland and Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP, both underlining the importance of fostering international trade partnerships amid changing global dynamics.

Koyas Miah said:

“This MoU is a step towards deepening our international connections. By working together, we unlock greater access to the Egyptian market, driving trade, investment, and strategic partnerships. This collaboration provides Suffolk and Egyptian businesses with the tools and connections needed to grow internationally, opening doors to new markets and enhancing their global competitiveness.”

Mark Lawrence, General Manager of the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce, added:

"The EBCC is proud to partner with the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, a collaboration that will set a benchmark within the British Chamber of Commerce network. By sharing opportunities across all sectors, hosting joint events, and facilitating trade missions in both directions, we are strengthening ties and creating new pathways for growth and success."

Unlocking opportunities for Suffolk businesses

This partnership will offer Suffolk businesses access to practical export support, networking opportunities, and direct connections to Egyptian suppliers through structured matchmaking events and the Trade Accelerator platform. Suffolk Chamber will continue working closely with its partners and the wider BCC network to champion Suffolk businesses on the national and international stage.