The Intertrade UK board, chaired by Baroness Arlene Foster, visited Larne to learn about efforts to expand trade within the UK. The organisation advises businesses on cross-region activities and promotes the UK's full market to traders.

Board members received updates on the Larne Community Wealth Building Partnership (LCWBP). Anchor organisations in the partnership collaborate on community wealth building to improve economic prospects.

Discussions covered plans for job and skills development in pharmaceuticals and logistics sectors.

The group met senior representatives from P&O and DP World at the Port of Larne. Talks focused on increasing trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

A networking lunch at Willowbank Business Park allowed meetings with executives from pharmaceutical and logistics sectors. Attendees included representatives from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Larne Business Forum, LEDCOM and Invest Northern Ireland.

Baroness Foster described the visit as an informative chance to gain insights on removing trade barriers and improving intra-UK trade benefits.

LCWBP, led by LEDCOM with support from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Access Employment Ltd, Larne Business Forum, Northern Regional College, Choice, Port of Larne and Larne Football Club, targets economic growth. The programme aims to create 2000 jobs and attract £50m in investment over the next decade.