The New Eastward Shift: How UK SMEs Can Benefit from Trade Growth in Türkiye, the GCC, and Asia
- Ash King
- Dec 11
- 3 min read
For UK SMEs planning their next stage of growth, one reality is becoming clearer every year: the world’s economic centre of gravity is moving eastward. Trade flows, investment strategies, supply chains, and emerging technologies are increasingly being shaped by markets such as Türkiye, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and Asia.
This shift is not abstract or long-term. It is already transforming where opportunities lie for British businesses today. And with leaders such as our founder Ammar Mirza CBE currently engaging directly with senior government and industry representatives across Türkiye, we are seeing first-hand how open these markets are to UK collaboration.
In this blog, we break down what the Eastward Shift means, why it matters for SMEs, and how UK businesses can position themselves to benefit.
Why the Eastward Shift Matters for UK SMEs
For decades, SMEs have looked to Europe or the US when thinking about international expansion. But several forces are accelerating a new pattern of global trade:
1. Faster economic growth in Türkiye, GCC countries, and Asia
Türkiye’s rapidly developing industrial base, the GCC’s diversification into technology and advanced manufacturing, and Asia’s scale all create strong demand for UK expertise and partnerships.
2. Large-scale investment programmes
From Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to Türkiye’s strategic connectivity agenda, governments across the region are investing heavily in infrastructure, digital transformation, skills, and new industries.
This opens doors for UK firms in:
• technology and digital services
• education and training
• construction and engineering
• green energy
• professional services
• creative industries
3. Increasing preference for UK standards and professional services
British businesses remain highly trusted in areas like governance, compliance, specialist consultancy, financial services, and innovation. The appetite for UK collaboration is high and growing.
Türkiye: The Strategic Bridge Between East and West
Ammar Mirza CBE’s current engagements in Türkiye highlight how influential the country has become for international business. Türkiye’s unique position—geographically, culturally, and economically—makes it a vital connector for Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Key opportunities for UK SMEs include:
• advanced manufacturing partnerships
• supply-chain diversification
• digitalisation projects
• trade distribution routes into Asia
• education and skills development
• tourism, culture, and creative sector collaboration
The interest from Turkish institutions in meeting UK leaders shows the strength of the opportunity. UK businesses that act early will benefit most.
The GCC: A Region Redefining Its Global Role
The Gulf markets—particularly Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar—are undergoing the fastest economic transformation anywhere in the world.
SMEs can tap into:
• mega-project supply chains
• smart city development
• fintech and digital services
• cultural and entertainment industries
• hospitality and tourism growth
• sustainability and green energy transitions
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 alone is creating thousands of supplier opportunities for innovative UK SMEs.
Asia: Scale, Innovation, and Long-Term Growth
Asia remains the world’s largest and fastest-growing regional market, with major demand for UK-led quality, technology, and specialist expertise. Even small firms can access opportunities through digital trade, e-commerce, and service exports.
What UK SMEs Can Do Now
1. Start with a single market
Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, and India all offer strong entry points.
2. Build local partnerships
Trade missions, chambers, and government agencies can facilitate valuable connections.
3. Align with government priorities
Understanding national visions and sectoral priorities gives SMEs a competitive advantage.
4. Get support from international trade hubs
Working through specialist centres, such as ISS Airview at Newcastle International Airport, can reduce friction and speed up access to new markets.
Opportunity Is Moving East
The rise of Türkiye, the GCC, and Asia represents one of the biggest shifts in global business in decades. For UK SMEs, this is not a threat but a major opportunity. The businesses that adapt early, build international connections, and understand where global demand is heading will remain resilient, competitive, and ready for long-term growth.
With ongoing trade engagements and growing international partnerships, leaders like Ammar Mirza CBE are ensuring that North East and UK SMEs are well positioned to take advantage of the Eastward Shift.
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