Commodity codes are the corner stone of international trade, as they classify goods for import or export, allows customs to apply correct duties and if any reliefs are available. It is vital to get these correct to avoid penalties and delay.
This course focus on understanding commodity codes, their purpose and how to classify your goods. We will also explore the UK Trade Tariff and how best to navigate, as well as how to find, analyse and understand customs and quota measures applicable to your goods.
Learning objectives are:
Why we need Commodity Codes and Who is Responsible
Explanation of the Harmonized System
Review the UK Trade Tariff and how to classify using:
The General Interpretative Rules (GIR)
Chapters | Headings | Sub Headings
Section Notes
Commodity Code Allocation
Classifying Goods & Advanced Tariff
Quotas and Customs Measures
This expert led course is part of the accredited BCC Foundation Award in International Trade. Each session will be followed by a short assessment to complete the training.
In the event you are no longer able to attend this training course, please note you must cancel or request a transfer of your place at least 7 working days before the course. The cancellation must be in writing and sent to export@norfolkchambers.co.uk indicating the name of the course you are cancelling for and delegate(s) details.
If a booking is not cancelled and the delegate does not attend, full event costs will still apply.
Chamber Co.nnects are fortnightly network meetings for its members to network and chat with other businesses in a digital space.
We believe networking is key during difficult times to help with mental health, continuation of business and access to help and advice from peers. Each network meeting will have 1-2 guest speaker(s) and will be focusing on a current topic.
Enjoy from the comfort of your own home with no early starts or commute and make sure to make a coffee and bring a smile to this online video meeting.
Who’s it for?
Business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, start-ups, young businesses and anyone who wants to connect and engage with other businesses in the Norfolk area.
Topic
Can we help you diversify your recruitment reach? Can you help us change a life?
Hear from two fellow Chamber members Break and The Feed. They have supported people who are now looking for maybe just a chat to help them decide direction, possibly work experience or even a job.
If you are recruiting now or will be in the future, then hear about another way to find candidates to help your business.
It may be that you want to consciously give people a chance who’ve had a tough time in their life so far.
Perhaps you like backing fellow local people, charities and organisations in other ways and could extend this philosophy to recruitment.
Hear from Michael and Chris about how as little as half an hour of your time can be life-changing to someone looking to build their career.
Michael Rooney has been with Break since 2011. Before this, he was the CEO of the Hamlet Centre and a social work manager for Norfolk County Council Adult Social Services. Break is an innovative charity that provides hope and support for vulnerable children and young people. We strive for the best outcomes for young people on the edge of care, in care and moving on from care. We will do this by offering a pathway of connected specialist support services to ensure young people have the care they need, when and where they need it, for as long as they need it.
Chris Elliott joined The Feed in 2020 having been in the Norfolk charity sector for eight years and before that over twenty years in marketing at Aviva. The Feed’s mission is to motivate change in people to prevent more poverty, hunger and homelessness in Norwich. Their cafe provides training opportunities alongside other support so that their clients are prepared for employment. Chris’s role is to manage and build The Feed’s relationships with corporates and he also supports their marketing and fundraising activity.
Agenda
09:30 – Welcome from Chamber. Go through format and any updates (5-mins) 09:35 – 45-second introductions from each delegate (15-mins) 09:50 – First speaker – Michael Rooney (10-mins) 10:00 – Q&A with Michael (5-mins) 10:05 – Second speaker – Chris Elliott (10-mins) 10:15 – Q&A with Chris (5-mins) 10.20 – Open discussion led by Michael and Chris (10-mins) 10:30 – Discussion topics and networking (30-mins) 11:00 – Close
Due to this event being for members only, it has been set-up for manual approval, so event details will be received shortly after registering rather than immediately.
The British Chambers of Commerce flagship Annual Conference is one of the main events in the business calendar, with the 2021 Conference taking place on 16 and 17 June.
Attended by hundreds of business leaders, policy makers, the media and Chambers of Commerce from around the world, the Conference will discuss how we can restore confidence and build a more resilient sustainable future, that supports businesses to recover, grow, invest and thrive.
The 2021 event will run over two days and feature high-level keynotes, expert panel sessions, practical workshops, and a virtual exhibition. We are expecting over 1,000 attendees.
The event is an excellent opportunity to raise the profile of your brand, engage with businesses of all sizes from all sectors and position your organisation as a thought leader.
Day 1 – A Year of Challenge and Reflection The UK is playing a leading role in vaccine development and rollout, is hosting the UN climate change conference in November and is striking post-Brexit trade deals with key markets across the world at an accelerated rate. However, challenges still remain.
How can we break through the difficult legacy left by the pandemic and move to a brighter future for the UK economy, leading to growth, resilient businesses and jobs?
POTENTIAL THEMES
Business Resilience at the heart of recovery:
How SMEs are adapting and transforming operations in response to new global demands
Supply chain diversification and restructure for long term resilience and sustainability
Recapitalisation and access to finance for businesses
Trade and Technology as drivers for economic recovery and growth:
Accelerated dependence on technology and placing innovation at the heart of recovery and growth
Technology as a driver for future development and growth and diversification in industries (e.g. medical technology, fintech, agricultural technology, energy technology/ trade technology)
Forging dynamic international trade and investment relationships to ensure sustained recovery and growth in the economy
Day 2 – The Road to Viable Renewed Growth Tackling the big challenges of today and tomorrow that impact future generations, by protecting health, inequities in society and the planet.
The Covid-19 experience has accelerated people’s demand that companies redress the balance between a volume and a value-driven economy, where profits are the primary ultimate goal.
POTENTIAL THEMES
Building a greener, more sustainable economy:
Meeting our net zero/ climate change commitments to ensure a sustainable future
Greater investment in sustainable infrastructure that is fit for purpose and reflects our changing environment
Innovation and tech-driven industries leading to new skills and jobs.Addressing the long-running weaknesses in our skills base while preparing for new ways of working
People as a force for change:
Diversity in leadership representation across all sectors of the economy
Radical changes in consumer behaviour that are impacting the way we shop, connect, socialise and work
Millennial and Generation Z consumers, employees and activists driving change from the bottom up
Please note that this content is not confirmed. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss how speakers might input into this.
How to book a place:
Please follow the book now link!
If you are a non-member and struggling please email hello@norfolkchambers.co.uk confirming how many places you require and a contact number. We will then call you to take payment.
After a fantastic first Co.Spark session that left attendees buzzing with ideas and inspiration, we’re back this January for another energising morning of collaboration, creativity, and practical business insight.
Co.Spark brings together business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals from across Norfolk in a unique mastermind-style format. Each session offers the chance to share challenges, gain honest feedback, and discover fresh perspectives that can help move your business forward.
Here’s what attendees said about our first event:
“A great way to meet like-minded business owners and get genuine, practical advice.” Joe Cain
“Exceptional insight and supportive feedback… it’s rare to find such genuine, collaborative learning in a networking environment.” Kathy Ennis
“A wisdom bath. Really helpful, in-the-room advice from people who know business.” Patrick Hussey
Whether you’re a Bright Spark (emerging entrepreneur) or a Co.Spark mentor (seasoned business leader), this is your space to share, learn and grow together.
Join us this January to ignite your ideas, strengthen your strategy, and connect with the people who’ll help you make it happen.
Places are limited: Book early to secure your spot!
Join us for what promises to be an informative and engaging event in November 2026
We’re delighted to announce that Kieran Dent from the Bank of England will return to share his expert insights on the national and regional economy at our event in late 2026.
Given the turbulent nature of world events and their ongoing impact on the UK and Norfolk economies, it’s difficult to predict exactly what the main talking points will be this much in advance However, we’re confident there will be significant issues to unpack, from monetary policy and interest rates to business investment and growth prospects.
This will be your opportunity to hear an off-the-record view of the economic landscape, understand what’s happening with key indicators affecting your business, and get your voice heard by posing questions directly to the Bank of England.
The event will be held under ‘Chatham House Rules’ and the press will not be invited, ensuring frank and open discussion.
Who is it for?
This event is ideal for senior decision-makers such as CEOs, Finance Directors, business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in gaining expert insights from the Bank of England on the economic factors shaping Norfolk’s business environment.
About Kieran Dent
Kieran Dent became Agent for the South East and East Anglia in 2023. Prior to joining the Bank’s Agency network, Kieran was for many years a senior economist within the Bank’s Monetary Analysis area, working on the Bank’s UK forecast and monetary strategy teams. He later joined the Bank in 2011, starting out in its Financial Stability area, working on the design of the Bank’s concurrent stress test of the UK banking system, and issues concerning the UK banking sector more generally.
About the Bank of England
The Bank of England is the UK’s central bank, with a mission to deliver monetary and financial stability for the people of the United Kingdom. For Norfolk’s business community, the Bank of England plays a crucial role in shaping the economic environment in which local businesses operate. Through its Agency network, the Bank gathers intelligence from businesses across the regions to inform national monetary policy decisions. These insights from Norfolk businesses feed directly into the Bank’s understanding of economic conditions and help shape decisions on interest rates, inflation targets, and financial stability measures that affect every business in the county. Events like this provide a rare opportunity for Norfolk business leaders to engage directly with senior Bank officials and gain insight into the economic factors that will shape their strategic planning.
Headline sponsor
If you are interested in sponsoring the 2026 Bank of England Lunch then please get in contact via events@norfolkchambers.co.uk.
Join us on our extended ‘recovery programme’ virtual events which support businesses to restart, rebuild and renew.
The UK government spends almost £300 billion per year on buying goods and services from external suppliers. Can your business afford to miss out on this significant market?
With hundreds of thousands of public sector contracts and tenders published every year, no matter what industry you’re in and what your services/goods are, there will be a government contract that is perfect for you.
Companies of all types and sizes should be able to access public sector contracts, irrespective of their experience or knowledge of the public-sector procurement process. We understand that this process can be confusing, intimidating and frustrating – but we are here to help you overcome these barriers and start winning those contracts!
This interactive webinar will not only provide an overview of how public sector procurement works but also take you through the entire tender process, from beginning to end. Including where to find tenders, how to decide if a tender is right for you and what to include in a high-quality bid submission.
The webinar is suitable for all individuals from all sectors, including anyone that:
Is new to public sector tendering
Has some experience of public sector tendering but would like to increase their understanding
Is experienced but would like to discover ways of improving their success rate
During and following the presentation, there will be opportunities to ask Kyle specific questions based on your previous experiences and industries. Please feel free to submit any questions or topics you’d like covered whilst registering.
Content / Takeaway
Understand what is included in the public-sector tendering process
Know where to find suitable tender opportunities
Able to determine if a tender is right for you and assess chances of success
Able to develop high-quality tender submissions
Avoid common mistakes when developing and submitting a tender
Better understanding of the key terminology and acronyms
Overall increased confidence and chances of successfully tendering for government contracts
When you register for your place, you will be sent a calendar invitation as confirmation of your place. The invite will include a unique link from Zoom for you to join the video call.
About the Speaker
Kyle Jameson, Managing Director and Lead Bid Writer at TenderHelp
Kyle founded TenderHelp in 2018 in response to a lack of affordable tender writing services in the market. One of the key drivers for the establishment of the company was the imbalance and unfairness in public sector tendering; frequently favouring large, more established organisations, even though other businesses, including SMEs and those with less experience of the tendering process, could offer better quality and value.
Prior to this, Kyle worked in a variety of procurement, buying and contract management roles in public sector organisations for almost 10 years, most recently Norwich City Council. This experience of writing tenders, evaluating tender submissions and ultimately awarding the contracts, gives Kyle a great insight into what buyers are looking for and hoping to receive in your submission.
About TenderHelp
TenderHelp is a market-leading bid management company, supporting companies of all sizes, in all sectors and industries, across the UK and Europe to tender for a range of public and private contracts.
Since its establishment, the team have helped thousands of companies (many SMEs) to win over £1bn worth of contracts, with a current bid/tender win rate above 75%.
Coffee & Co.nnect is a fantastic opportunity to network with local businesses in the community. It is also our opportunity as Norfolk Chambers to connect, support, and give a voice to every business in Norfolk.
As well as having the chance to network with fellow businesses, you’ll also be able to discuss key topics and feedback to the Chambers network.
Our aim is to hold these sessions in the cities, towns, and villages across Norfolk, to connect, support, and give voice to every business in the county. These groups are accessible to all businesses, whether you are a Chambers member or a non-member.
As an accredited Chamber, it is key that we listen to the issues that are most important to you. As far as networking events go, we are in the unique position here to utilise the Chamber network to lobby and influence on your behalf, using our dedicated team, our website, social media channels, and our digital platform.
Refreshments
Complimentary Tea and Coffee provided
Cancellations
If you are unable to attend the event, please notify hello@norfolkchambers.co.uk
Co.Spark Round Table: Bright Sparks in Action Where Ideas Spark and Solutions Start
Got a business idea or a challenge you’re wrestling with? Join us for the very first Co.Spark Round Table: a relaxed, friendly session where you’ll get the chance to talk things through with our Bright Sparks.
These experienced business minds are here to listen, share their knowledge, and help you spot the opportunities that might be right in front of you. Whether you’re looking to take the next step with your idea, grow what you’ve already started, or just need a bit of clarity. This is your chance to tap into a wealth of real-world insight and guidance.
This isn’t a pitch. It’s a conversation. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your ambition.
Join us on our extended ‘recovery programme’ virtual events which support businesses to restart, rebuild and renew.
You might be the best at what you do, but if you’re not sharing your expertise by blogging about it, you’re missing out. Discover how to include the power of blogging in your marketing strategy and create a blog content calendar that will develop and share your expertise to build your reputation and increase your sales.
Content / Takeaway
In this Masterclass, Kathy and Emma will cover:
How blogs work as a marketing tool
How to discover who an audience is and what will they want to read about
What to write, when to write, how much to write and where to find inspiration to write
The importance of using images in a blog
How to create a blog content calendar
When you register for your place, you will be sent a calendar invitation as confirmation of your place. The invite will include a unique link from Zoom for you to join the video call.
Kathy Ennis is the founder of LittlePiggy. She is a Business Mentor and Trainer with over 20-years of business experience. She is an expert in helping micro and side-hustle businesses start-up and scale-up. Kathy is a trainer and an ambassador for the Facebook #SheMeansBusiness campaign, an Enterprise Nation Local Leader and co-founder of 24 Degrees.
Emma Goode is the founder and CEO of the award-winning digital marketing agency, 24 fingers. She works with business owners and third sector organisations to help them grow and develop through social media and online marketing. Emma is an active Local Leader for Enterprise Nation and co-founder of 24 Degrees.
LittlePiggy and 24 fingers (together we are 24 Degrees).
Since the pandemic and with low unemployment rates in the eastern region, businesses of all types are having trouble hiring. In this candidate-driven market and with job seekers undertaking their own research into prospective employers as part of their diligence, the war on talent is at its most fierce for decades.
Companies are having to work much harder to attract and secure the talent they need. Where do you start?
During this workshop, we will be exploring ways in which you can make your business stand out from the rest, to secure the talent needed to take your business to the next level and ensure your ongoing success. We will reveal how your employer branding affects your business and will share practical tips for building your reputation as an employment destination.
Charlotte Bate:
A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, BA Hons Business and Personnel.
With over 15 years’ experience as an HR Professional, Trainer and Coach, Charlotte has supported Chief Executives, Board of Directors, Entrepreneurs, Business Professionals from global businesses to small family run businesses across a variety of industries by drawing on her wealth of HR expertise and commercial acumen.
In 2016, Charlotte joined as a Director at MAD-HR. MAD-HR stands for Make A Difference HR, which was formed to bring a new brand of HR to East Anglia. With offices in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex, together with their team they have grown the company into a Future 50 Class of 2019, a finalist in the Suffolk Business Awards 2018, a finalist in the SME National Business Awards for High Growth Business of the Year and judges shortlist for Norfolk Business Award and most recently in 2021, receiving the Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award.
MAD-HR
An award-winning HR Consultancy based supporting businesses across East Anglia with offices in Norwich, Ipswich, and Chelmsford. MAD-HR stands for ‘Make a Difference’ HR. Our philosophy is focused on providing premier, outsourced, flexible HR expertise to businesses regardless of their size, driven by great customer service. We can help your businesses thrive, succeed and flourish, keeping you fully in step with UK employment law. Plus, we’re really nice to work with.
July Co.next Lunch & Learn with Harry Harris, Business Coach and Mentor
Are you ready to level up on active listening, creative thinking, and collaboration? Join us this July for an energising Co.next workshop led by Action Spark’s Harry Harris – a proven expert in sparking connection and creativity at work.
What to expect:
Interactive, real-world exercises designed to sharpen communication skills and bring immediate impact
Practical tools & techniques to help you listen deeply, express clearly, and think outside the box
Engaging, collaborative challenges that forge stronger team bonds — ideal whether you’re flying solo or coming with a colleague
Boosted confidence and fresh insights you’ll be able to put into action the moment you’re back at your desk
Walk away with:
A toolkit of communication and creative skills you can apply straight away
Renewed confidence in your ability to connect and contribute
A more collaborative mindset — and new connections along the way!
Making Tax Digital (MTD) is transforming the way UK businesses manage and report their finances, but with change often comes uncertainty.
Join Rebecca Duale, Founder of Number-wise, for a practical and down-to-earth session on adapting your business to meet digital tax requirements with confidence.
In this session, Rebecca will share:
What Making Tax Digital really means for small businesses
How going digital can simplify your financial processes and save time
Common challenges and how to overcome them
Why adapting to change doesn’t have to be overwhelming
Whether you’re already using digital accounting software or just getting started, you’ll leave with clear, actionable advice on how to stay compliant, efficient, and future-ready.