International Trade and Connectivity in the North Report

What is it?
This report looks at international trade across the North and how transport connectivity supports it. Commissioned by Transport for the North, it analyses current trade volumes and patterns, future growth scenarios and the implications for airports, ports and surface access.

How is it useful?
It helps policymakers and planners link transport investment to economic growth. Use it to understand how better domestic and international connectivity can support exports, jobs and productivity, and to align transport plans with the Northern Powerhouse growth ambitions.

Key findings

• The North generates almost 20% of UK economic activity but 15% of national exports
• Exports support over 1.2 million jobs across the North
• Around 101 million tonnes of goods are exported each year; only 39% move through Northern ports and airports
• 4.1 million business air passengers travel to and from the North annually, rising to 8–9 million by 2050
• Domestic transport investment could support around 30% of future business travel demand