MoU to boost EU trade growth

This comes as a new all-year-round maritime trade route is launched. The cargo service from the shipping firm, Southampton Fruit Handling, offers an alternative to road transport for Andalucían exporters of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Jimmy Chestnutt, Hampshire Chamber chief executive, said: “By signing, we agree to work together to promote training, trade support and new trade growth not just in fruit but in other sectors too.”

President Diego Martinez Cano, who signed on behalf of the Almería Chamber, added: “Almería is the main point of reference for Spanish Chambers in their contacts with North Africa and South America and so we also have the opportunity to open new markets in these regions for companies in Hampshire.”

The new trade route is also expected to decrease road traffic on the European mainland and its associated carbon emissions and cost, as well as create new jobs for up to 60 stevedores at Southampton’s Western Docks.

The production of fresh produce from Almería generates around €2,5m a year for Spain’s regional economy. Around 70% of the output, around three million tonnes, is exported, with German, France and the UK being the main export markets.