A vehicle export terminal that is part of a £50 million investment by ABP (www.abports.co.uk) in the Port of Southampton was officially opened earlier this month by Greg Hands, the Minister of State for International Trade.

At a ceremony attended by automotive-industry leaders and civic dignitaries, Mr Hands said: “The Port of Southampton is key to the UK’s exporting success, with £40 billion of British-made products shipped out each year to destinations across the world. It is the UK’s busiest vehicle-handling port, and the new terminal will move Britain into fifth gear when it comes to world car exports.

"This will give a boost to leading British car manufacturers like Jaguar Land Rover, by ensuring that their cars can reach global market-places faster.”

ABP Southampton director Alastair Welch said: “ABP has already invested more than £32 million over the past five years to support the growth in vehicle exports, and we continue to work closely with our customers to ensure that this growth can be sustained.

The latest investment is testimony to the performance of the Port of Southampton and will help to increase the port’s vital contribution to the regional and national economy.”