Showcasing the future of global trade
Right here in Teesside
Teesside is leading the charge in transforming international commerce, thanks to a pioneering new facility at Teesside International Airport.
Structured around three immersive themes – Today’ s Reality, Building the Foundations, and What Great Looks Like – the event showcased everything from the inefficiencies of paper-based systems to the unveiling of an Aurrigo autonomous vehicle, set to operate at the airport later this year. With administrative burdens accounting for up to 15 % of trade costs, the Testbed’ s work could save UK businesses billions – while positioning Teesside as a global centre for digital trade excellence.
‘ The Digital Trade Testbed is a cornerstone of Teesside University’ s commitment to innovation and economic growth, It empowers businesses to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and boost security through digital transformation.’
Professor Stephen Cummings, Pro Vice-Chancellor( Research and Knowledge Exchange)
The Teesside Digital Trade Testbed – the first of its kind in the UK – is a world-class innovation hub where businesses, policymakers and tech leaders are shaping the future of global trade. Developed by Teesside University in partnership with Tees Valley Combined Authority, Teesside Freeport, ICC United Kingdom, and the International Centre for Digital Trade and Innovation( iC4DTI), the Testbed is a secure, real-world environment for trialling cutting-edge technologies including AI, IoT, geofencing and decentralised digital identities.
At a recent two-day demonstration event, delegates from across government, industry and academia experienced how digital trade can reduce costs, speed up customs clearance, unlock earlier access to finance and cut fraud risk – all while boosting sustainability.
‘ This is another example of groundbreaking innovation unfolding right on our doorstep. We’ re pioneering technologies here in Teesside that will shape global trade and put our region firmly on the map.’
Ben Houchen, Metro Mayor of the Tees Valley
‘ I’ m not aware of anywhere else like it in the world. This is a worldleading asset and a critical part of the UK’ s innovation ecosystem.’
Chris Southworth, Secretary General of ICC UK
Explore how your business can benefit from the Teesside Digital Trade Testbed and be part of the future of global trade. tees. ac. uk / business / partnership / dtt. cfm
Digital Life: the perfect setting for your conference or event
Digital Life is Teesside University’ s new £ 41.4m flagship centre for digital innovation, offering world-class facilities and flexible event spaces ideal for exhibitions, awards ceremonies, conferences and networking.
Find out more at tees. ac. uk / business or email business @ tees. ac. uk
56 | Tees Business