Guernsey economy chief in talks to build trade with France

The President of the Committee for Economic Development of Guernsey, Deputy Neil Inder, recently met with French politicians to explore ways to expand trade opportunities. This meeting marks an important step for Guernsey in strengthening its economic ties with the regions of France, aiming to promote mutual development between the two.

Last Friday, Deputy Inder held talks with representatives from the local government and tourism agencies of Saint-Malo. Furthermore, he attended the naming ceremony of Brittany Ferries' new vessel, the "Saint-Malo," and met with senior French national officials. The Guernsey government stated that ongoing discussions are currently underway with Jersey and three ferry companies regarding increasing inter-island services.

In Saint-Malo, Deputy Inder met with Anne Gallo, Vice President of the Regional Council of Brittany, Gilles Lurton, Mayor of Saint-Malo, Jean-Virgile Crance, Deputy Mayor of Saint-Malo, and Dominique de la Portebarrière, Director of the Saint-Malo Tourist Office. He stated: "We had very cordial conversations, discussing how to strengthen business links between Guernsey and Brittany, and fully utilize the new Brittany Ferries timetable between Guernsey and Saint-Malo."

Deputy Inder also met with Agnès Pannier-Runacher, Minister for Energy Transition, Philippe Tabarot, Minister of Transport, and Françoise Gatel, Minister for Regional Affairs. He stated: "Each of them was aware of Guernsey's decision to strengthen ties with France through Brittany Ferries. I, along with everyone else present, felt that they truly understood this new chapter in the partnership between Guernsey and the regions of France."

Deputy Inder added that he will be meeting with Loïg Chesnais-Girard, President of the Brittany Region, later this week to discuss strengthening business links. This meeting is expected to further solidify economic cooperation between Guernsey and Brittany, creating more development opportunities for businesses on both sides.