Already, international business plays a crucial role in the
Northwest.

In 2006, international exports of goods and services were
worth £29.7 billion, or a quarter of the value of the regional
economy.

There are already just over 2,000 foreign businesses
directly investing in the Northwest, employing 347,000
people, and accounting for 17% of the region’s economy.

Many global businesses and supply chains are controlled
from the Northwest.

The region’s businesses and research institutions play an
important role in global innovation.

Over 25,000 overseas students are currently studying in
our universities.

We are a major international transport hub – 28 million
people pass through our airports every year, and 30 million
tonnes of international freight go through our leading ports.

Over 190,000 people have chosen to settle in the Northwest
from overseas since 2000, bringing with them a wealth of
talent, skills and experience.
Why international business is important to the Northwest