SMMTInternational Update February 2026
3 Feb 2026
Year of the Horse welcomes opportunities and good fortune for business
Frances Woodman, International Manager, shares about international activities for the February edition of the SMMTInternational Update.
Lunar New Year, celebrated in much of East and South East Asia and around the world, starts on 17 February and this time the Year of the Horse will be welcomed – traditionally seen as a year of opportunity, perfect for exploring international business prospects. Have a look at our calendar below which highlights upcoming overseas activities for UK automotive companies to seize and grow abroad.
One such example is our recent trip to India for SIAT in Pune, with a UK delegation led by the Department for Business and Trade, focusing on automotive technology. We were encouraged by our close and ever-growing relationship with India, including increased interest in what the UK has to offer, while British delegates are eager to work with Indian companies.
A reminder that as well as the calendar listed below, our website is constantly updated with our latest programme for the year. If you would like to take part in any activities, or have your own request, please fill out our and a member of the team will get back to you.
Wishing you all the best, and a year of opportunity ahead for everyone welcoming in the Year of the Horse!
Frances
Upcoming events:
12 March, UK: SMMTElectrified the preeminent industry summit on decarbonisation and electrification of road transport, bringing together 450 senior representatives from industry, government and key partner sectors.
13-16 May, Thailand: SUBCON Thailand an international industrial part-sourcing and business-matching event, co-organised by the Thailand Board of Investment – with incentives including complimentary accommodation, site visits and a B2B meeting programme.
8-12 September, Germany: Automechanika Frankfurt SMMTis organising the UK Pavilion, we are currently allocating spaces so if you are interested please get in touch ASAP.
6-9 October – Georgia and South Carolina, USA: Southeastern Supply Chain trade mission SMMTwill be returning to the Southern Automotive Conference in Atlanta, Georgia before heading to South Carolina for a programme of site visits, networking receptions and briefings.
2-4 November, Slovakia: CEE Automotive Supply Chain join the trade mission to Slovakia to explore the supply chain opportunities for UK companies in the Central and Eastern European region.
TBC – China activity: SMMTis considering organising activities in China in 2026 (activity, dates and location TBC). Express interestÌýÌýto find out more details once confirmed.
TBC – Türkiye activity: SMMTis considering organising activities inÌýTürkiye in 2026 (activity, dates and location TBC). Express interestÌý to find out more details once confirmed.
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