UK and US security industry associations forge closer ties 

Establishing a closer relationship between the UK and US security markets, as part of post-Brexit trade deal negotiations, is the focus of renewed talks between the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) and the American Security Industry Association (SIA).

Representing 640 companies across the US, the SIA engages with the US government and both Houses of Congress on Capitol Hill while providing members with industry research, standards guidance and training opportunities.

At a private summit in Washington DC on Friday 17 March, the BSIA’s public affairs executive, Felix Parker-Smith, met with SIA counterparts to discuss opportunities for closer collaboration.

A return visit planned for this summer will see a delegation from the SIA visit the BSIA in London and SIA chief executive Don Erickson is scheduled to speak at the BSIA’s annual luncheon on 12 July.

As well as providing a platform for the SIA to learn more about the work of the UK security industry, establishing closer ties between the two organisations may also help to ensure that the British security industry is in a strong position to benefit from international trade deals established in the wake of Brexit.

Commenting on the visit, Felix Parker-Smith said: “Although there will be a number of businesses back home in the UK concerned about the potential effects of Brexit, these negotiations are only one side of the debate and we should welcome potential trade agreements beneficial to the UK security industry with open arms. Today’s summit in Washington with the American Security Industry Association reinforces that view, laying the groundwork for a positive trade agreement between the UK and the USA once we leave the EU.”

For UK security companies, the US is already an important export market, with British manufacturers exporting an estimated £633m to American customers. Meanwhile, the BSIA’s links with Europe remain strong through its influential presence on Euralarm and CoESS (Confederation of European Security Suppliers) committees.

Said BSIA CEO James Kelly: “It’s an exciting time for the UK to throw open the doors to wider international trade, especially with our closest ally and largest individual trading partner. I look forward to welcoming our American colleagues to London in the summer to showcase the UK security industry.”

To book your place at the BSIA’s Annual Luncheon on Wednesday 12 July, click here.

The BSIA is a longstanding and valued partner of, and exhibitor at, IFSEC International, Europe’s biggest fire and security trade show – taking place 20-22 June 2017, London ExCeL. Get your free badge now.

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