Yorkshire has the talent and track record to make the most of opportunities in markets such as India - Stuart Tait

Yorkshire has never been short of ambition. From world-changing industrial ingenuity to advanced manufacturing at the AMRC in Rotherham, digital innovation in Leeds and life sciences in Sheffield, the region has a habit of taking what it does best and scaling it beyond its borders.

The opportunity now is to turn that heritage into momentum: more exporting firms, more globally connected supply chains and more high-quality jobs in towns and cities across Yorkshire.

That’s why HSBC is proud to sponsor the Great North Mayoral Delegation to India, a historic trade mission bringing together mayors from Northern England and a delegation of local businesses. The visit comes at an important moment, following the UK-India Free Trade Agreement. The partnership is expected to unlock £25.5bn in bilateral trade by 2040, creating significant opportunities for Yorkshire businesses.

The region is already a powerhouse, and its strengths align closely with India’s growth priorities.

This mission is the latest step in sustained engagement with India, in 2022, they secured a commitment from technology firm Mphasis to create 1,000 jobs in Leeds. In October last year, Mayor Brabin travelled to Mumbai, where Mastek confirmed a £2m expansion of its Leeds office, creating 200 jobs. Algorithms Software also announced a £5m investment, creating a further 53 jobs in West Yorkshire.

Since then, Indian technology firm Hexaware has committed £25m to expand in the UK, creating around 1,200 jobs, including a flagship research and development centre in Leeds. Carbon Clean’s £7.6m innovation centre in Navi Mumbai is being built with components engineered in Huddersfield, supporting up to 150 roles at Thomas Broadbent & Sons.

Exporting, however, isn’t only for major names such as Forgemasters or Bettys. The next wave of growth will come from Yorkshire’s mid-sized businesses: firms with the expertise, determination and customer focus to succeed, but which may lack the networks or working capital needed to take the next step.

At HSBC, our role is more than providing finance. We’re also a connector, helping businesses build relationships in-market and access the knowledge they need to trade with confidence.

Trade is a team sport. Local government, combined authorities, chambers of commerce, universities and industry bodies each bring something vital. Mayoral leadership can convene the right people and set a clear direction. Businesses understand what is needed on the ground. Financial institutions contribute global reach and practical expertise.

When those strengths combine, the impact extends well beyond a single visit. It creates long-term relationships, repeat orders, inward investment and more resilient supply chains.

This mission is about measurable outcomes: more Yorkshire firms beginning to export, more exporters entering new markets, more investment flowing into the region and more opportunities for young people to build careers in engineering, digital, green technologies and the professional services that support them. Yorkshire has the talent and track record. With the right partnerships, support and ambition, it can write the next chapter of its export story—one that is modern, inclusive and globally connected.

Stuart Tait is head of commercial banking at HSBC UK.