Guernsey has hosted a business networking event with representatives from Brittany in a bid to strengthen cross-Channel trade.
The event was organised by Economic Development (ED) and Guernsey Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Saint-Malo delegation of the CCI Ille-et-Vilaine Chamber of Commerce.
It brought together businesses and politicians from Guernsey and the Brittany region to discuss potential collaboration, knowledge sharing and two-way trade, a spokesperson said.
ED described the gathering as part of a wider programme of engagement with French regional authorities and business communities, intended to build partnerships and increase trade opportunities.
Caroline Spink, ED’s International Trade Adviser, said France had long been an important trading partner for Guernsey.
“Strengthening those relationships is a key priority within the Committee for Economic Development’s 2026-2029 work plan,” she said.
Ms Spink added that the Committee was committed to helping Guernsey businesses build stronger commercial links with their nearest neighbours.
Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller, President of ED, emphasised the importance of building relationships with nearby regions.
The discussions also highlighted Guernsey’s potential as a market for French businesses looking to expand.
Bénédicte Vivien, from the Saint-Malo delegation, thanked Guernsey’s hosts for their hospitality and said the visit had generated positive feedback from participating members.
“The quality of the discussions and the collaborative spirit shown throughout the visit have established a strong foundation for future business and institutional cooperation,” she said.
Ms Vivien added that “several promising opportunities” had been identified, with follow-up work already underway.
Participants hope to organise a further visit in 2027, she said, building on what was described as the success of the inaugural mission.
It remains to be seen what commercial outcomes emerge from the meetings, and whether the proposed follow-up visit will lead to measurable benefits for businesses on either side of the Channel.
