BCCT and Teesside Freeport Launch Strategic Dialogue in Istanbul for Next-Generation Trade Cooperation
The British Chamber of Commerce in Turkey (BCCT) hosted representatives from the UK’s SME Centre of Excellence (CofE) in Istanbul, convening a high-level strategic meeting aimed at enhancing bilateral trade collaboration. Led by BCCT Chairman Chris Gaunt OBE, the meeting brought together CofE and ISS Group Founder Ammar Mirza CBE and ISS Teesside Freeports CEO Atif Malik. Meeting with BCCT members, the delegation explored ways to deepen trade ties between the UK and Türkiye, with a focus on innovation and logistics.
Strategic Istanbul Meeting Strengthens Bilateral Cooperation
Commenting on the visit, BCCT Chairman Chris Gaunt OBE stated:
“Türkiye continues to be one of the UK’s most vital and dynamic trading partners outside the EU. Platforms such as Teesside Freeport offer practical, forward-looking pathways for seamless trade. At BCCT, we are proud to collaborate with visionary partners who can turn global thinking into local impact.”
Ammar Mirza CBE also shared his reflections on the meeting:
“Under Atif Malik’s leadership, Teesside Freeport represents a new generation of freeports that blend physical infrastructure with strategic intelligence. Our goal is to create a high-trust, innovation- and investment-friendly trade environment for businesses across both the UK and Türkiye. Through ISS Freeports, ISS Airview and our 3IP model, we deliver practical, strategic support that drives real outcomes. With deep country level relationships already established with India – led by Sharon Jandu OBE – and across the Middle East.”
Teesside Freeport: The UK’s Most Connected Trade Zone
Teesside Freeport stands out as one of the UK’s most advanced and connected trade zones. With over 1 million square feet of aviation (air cargo) and innovation space, a designated customs zone, and first-class logistics infrastructure, it offers a strategic hub for direct trade corridors extending from the UK to Türkiye, the Middle East, and beyond.
With fast-track customs clearance, bonded storage, and comprehensive licensing infrastructure, Teesside Freeport provides tailored solutions for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value cargo – enabling the smooth flow of goods through integrated, accelerated logistics.
3IP Model: Innovation, Investment, Internationalisation
Beyond infrastructure, the delegation also discussed ISS’s 3IP model, which provides a strategic framework for global business success. The model includes:
- Innovation: Collaboration between innovation districts, universities, and industry.
- Investment: Access to global investors, public funding, and private capital.
- Internationalisation: Strategic market entry, trade facilitation, and cultural bridge support.
Within this framework, Teesside Freeport is positioned not just as a logistics hub but as a launchpad for Turkish exporters and investors looking to grow internationally with confidence.
New Collaboration Opportunities with Turkish Cargo and IGA
As part of the Istanbul visit, the delegation held high-level meetings with executives from Turkish Airlines Cargo and Istanbul Grand Airport (IGA). Discussions focused on aligning Teesside Freeport’s modern cargo infrastructure with Türkiye’s world-class aviation and logistics capabilities, laying the groundwork for integrated UK–Türkiye trade corridors.
Strengthening the BCCT–CofE Partnership
During the meetings, BCCT and the SME Centre of Excellence reaffirmed their previously signed Memorandum of Understanding. The renewed commitment includes joint efforts in empowering SMEs, facilitating trade, and developing collaborative programmes across both countries.