UK exporters get an easy-to-use and instantly accessible service to over 30 million European companies and other commercial organizations - to help to sustain the UK's economic confidence.

With a deep understanding of the business information marketplace and access to business data for 240 countries worldwide, leading credit information provider, Equifax, is providing UK exporters with an easy-to-use and instantly accessible service to help fuel continued export growth. Equifax International Business Reports provide instant, easy access to over 30 million European companies and other commercial organizations - a vital resource for helping to sustain the UK's economic confidence. According to a recent survey by the Institute of Directors, UK export prospects for the coming months look very positive.

In fact, more than 8 out of 10 company bosses predict that export growth performance will remain steady or strengthen during the remainder of 2005.

Of these, more than 50% predict stronger growth in their export business over the coming months.

The research also has shown that the greatest prospects were identified in European markets (64%), followed by American (46%) and Asian markets, including China (44%).

Despite this projected growth, obtaining in-depth information on potential customers still remains a major challenge for UK businesses trading overseas.

Equifax International Business Reports address this need by making it easier than ever to investigate a prospect on the continent and make informed business decisions to minimise risks.

With a single click, International Business Reports can be accessed through the same system used to review UK companies and businesses.

making the checking process as simple and streamlined as possible.

Furthermore, Equifax delivers the reports in a standardized format, so that the information can be viewed and interpreted more easily.

'There are countless obstacles inherent in overseas trade,' confirmed Nick Frazer, head of Business Information Services, Equifax.

'From the different accounting rules and limited trade references, to local payment practices, these can all lead to bad debt and loss of profitability if not dealt with head on, and with the best possible information.

Equifax International Business Reports offers businesses the online tools they need to give them the essential intelligence to make the best decisions, as well as manage credit risk, reduce bad debt and increase profitability.' Equifax International Business Reports are available online through companies and businesses in the following key European countries: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland.

The information includes company registration and identification details, details on directors and shareholders, any mortgages and charges and detailed financials.

A recommended credit decision is also provided, which gives a score and recommendation for whether to do business with the organisation, and on what credit terms.

Detailed reports on companies from the rest of the world can be ordered and delivered online, ensuring that UK businesses can trade profitably anywhere in the world.

'The export market is crucial for the sustained growth of the UK economy', concluded Frazer.

'It is, therefore, vital that UK businesses have access to the best possible information, quickly and easily, to ensure that they only trade with the right overseas partners.' * The Institute of Directors (IoD) report was based on a survey of 500 IoD members conducted by NOP.

It presented the views of company bosses on their businesses' tendency to export, export performance and the difficulties they face in selling goods and services abroad.