The UK manufacturing sector should be at the forefront of the UK’s economic development, says the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

The UK manufacturing sector should be at the forefront of the UK’s economic development, says the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

The business organisation has called for the government to create a tax and regulatory environment that helps UK manufacturers drive up growth in productivity and exports.

John Cridland, CBI director general designate, says: ‘UK manufacturing is in many ways the unsung hero of our economy. Big productivity gains in the past ten years have made it leaner than ever before, and it’s now well placed to lead the country’s economic recovery.’

Andy Reynold Smith, chairman of the CBI Manufacturing Council, stresses the importance of manufacturers accessing new markets.

‘The rise of emerging economies, such as India and China, is creating a new generation of consumers eager to buy goods and enjoy a better lifestyle. But competition for these markets will be fierce,’ he says.

‘The government must ensure that connections with businesses and universities are strong, focusing on the development of industrial capability and helping manufacturers to access new markets such as Brazil, China and Africa.’

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Related topics: Andy Reynold Smith, CBI