LANCASHIRE firms are being urged to show how they mind their language to win business.

The DTI's Languages for Export Awards aims to reward firms which have overcome language and cultural barriers to win export deals overseas. "Speaking the native language of a potential overseas client can be the decisive factor in securing a deal or winning an order," said Sir Peter Parker, chairman of the Languages for Export Campaign.

"More than 60 per cent of UK exports go to non-English speaking countries and the areas offering the greatest prospect of future growth are also non-English speaking, such as the Pacific Rim. This means that UK companies are inevitably experiencing communications problems as they try to expand overseas."

But Sir Peter said there were many examples of companies winning lucrative contacts because they had made the effort to understand their clients' language and culture. Further details on the competition are available from co-ordinator Mike Collins, on 01606 734201.

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