The latest figures released by HMRC (www.gov.uk/HMRC) reveal that in the year ending September 2018: exports of goods from England increased by 3.1% to £247.6 billion; from Scotland — by 6.2% to £29.6 billion; and from Wales — by 3.0% to £16.9 billion.

Meanwhile, goods exports from Northern Ireland decreased by 0.2% to £8.6 billion.

Between July and September 2018, UK exporters shipped goods valued at £0.8 million on average.

Data also showed that businesses were taking advantage of global interest, as the number exporting to non-EU countries in the latest quarter rose to 49,000, with the most popular non-EU destinations including the USA, Australia and Switzerland.

Comparing 2018 to 2017, the growth in goods exports came from regions across the UK, with the East Midlands seeing the greatest rise in the value of exports (up 10.9%) followed by Yorkshire and the Humber (8.6%) and the South West (6.3%).

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said: “The continued rise in exports across the country is fantastic news for Britain.

“More than 110,000 businesses are expanding their horizons and making the most of the demand for British goods.

“Moreover, our international economic department has set out an offer for all businesses designed to ensure they can make the most of global opportunities.”

Launched in August, the Export Strategy sets out how the Department for International Trade (DIT) will help businesses of all sizes to make the most of the opportunities presented by markets around the world.

It “sets a new ambition from government” to boost exports until they account for 35% of the UK’s GDP.