THINKING outside the box could lead to a welcome boost in overseas trade.

Kent International Trade Club, the successor to Kent Export Club, is hosting an event on March 26 that aims to help local firms do better in tough markets.

"Thinking outside the Box - Distributor Best Practice" will be held at The Dog and Bear Hotel in Lenham. It follows the February meeting - on February 28 at Pilgrim's Rest Hotel, Kennington, Ashford - which is focused on the United States and Canada as export targets.

For further information and to confirm attendance please contact John Watson on 01732 879008.

Meanwhile, KITC has broadened the brief of the former export club by including both imports and exports, as well as all aspects of international trading.

Committee member Mike Connell, of Connell Trading, said the club aimed to book interesting speakers that revealed little known facts to Kent firms, such as China's cash pile of £1 billion in foreign currency to spend on imports.

"I suspect many companies are put off by the alleged complexity of exporting," he said. "In fact, it's very easy if you know how or can find someone who does. I have been doing for 18 years with very little problems."

KITC is sponsored by HSBC and CNA Maritime, and backed by chambers of commerce, Business Link Kent and Trade Partners UK. Mr Connell can be contacted on 01303 264241.