Key facts

• The South East economy is worth £166 billion ($323 billion, €246 billion)

• All major industries are well established in the region with many leading the UK. Sectors with critical mass in the South East include pharmaceuticals, biotech, healthcare, ICT, high-tech engineering, digital media, environmental technology, aerospace and electronics

• The South East is an international transport hub with fast links to European and global marketplaces via three international airports (including Heathrow) and the Channel Tunnel

• The region has the highest rate for exporting in the UK. Goods worth £29 billion ($57 billion, €43 billion) are moved via an efficient distribution network of 11 ports (including Southampton, Thamesport and Dover) and an extensive road network

• Easy and efficient access to Europe’s financial capital London is provided by a comprehensive road network and direct train services to the capital from 77 train stations

• The region has the largest population of any UK region, approximately eight million people.

• Companies based in the South East have access to a highly skilled and flexible workforce. The region produces 74,000 graduates per year

• The South East is home to 24 universities and higher education institutes including the University of Oxford

• The South East is a high-technology and research-intensive economy. 23 percent of Research & Development (R&D) expenditure in the UK is spent in the region, with 45,800 people employed in R&D activities.

Want to find out more?

If you want more detailed information on companies that have established and grown their businesses in the South East, the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has a selection of case studies on its website, covering firms in a range of business sectors.

For other information on how to do business in the South East region visit the SEEDA website.