In our latest blog, Foreign Trade Intern Anaïs Kronengold reflects on her internship at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, where she gained hands-on experience supporting SMEs and exploring international trade.
During my time at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK as a Foreign Trade Intern, I participated in numerous projects, from coordinating trade agendas and trade missions to preparing presentations on sector trends in the UK market, organising institutional events, contributing to the VII Barometer, and supporting the resolution of bilateral trade enquiries. I also attended trade fairs across a variety of sectors, where I had the opportunity to discover remarkable companies and professionals. At one of these events, I even had the chance to meet local representatives from the city where I grew up: Alicante.
Beyond the variety of tasks, one of the aspects I have appreciated most about this institution is its commitment to the professional development of interns, ensuring that each experience is tailored to individual interests and strengths. In my case, given my inclination toward international trade, I had the opportunity to manage various enquiries received by the Foreign Trade Department relating to import and export procedures, which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the commercial relationship between Spain and the UK.
What drives my interest in international trade?
I am of Belgian origin, raised in Alicante, and have lived in several cities and countries throughout my life. From an early age, I have been drawn to the international sphere, an environment in which I feel genuinely comfortable. Joining the Chamber presented an excellent opportunity to launch my professional career and gain experience in a dynamic, cross-border business environment.
I am also grateful to the Valencian Institute of Business Competitiveness (IVACE) and its “IVACE Exterior Scholarship” programme, which provided the support and resources necessary to make this experience possible.
The day-to-day reality of foreign trade
International trade is characterised by its dynamism and constant need to adapt to an evolving environment. Each operation requires the coordination of multiple factors, which vary depending on the country, sector, and timing. In this context, day-to-day activity in foreign trade demonstrates that there are no universal solutions: each company must identify its own way of accessing international markets, tailoring its strategy to specific and ever-changing circumstances.
Among the most common enquiries received by the Chamber in this area are those related to customs procedures and documentation requirements. Companies often seek guidance on the shipment of commercial samples or products intended for exhibitions and trade fairs, as well as on the procedures required for temporary imports. Questions regarding product certification, rules of origin, tariff classification, and the corresponding CPC codes are also frequent.
These enquiries come from companies with very diverse profiles, both in terms of size and sector, yet they all share a common goal: operating safely and efficiently in the UK market. Moreover, they all rely on the Chamber for one key reason: its expertise and guidance as a trusted source for navigating international trade.
What practice teaches us: behind every commercial operation
Handling and analysing enquiries related to import and export procedures has given me a deep understanding of the complexity of international trade. Behind an operation that may appear straightforward lies a demanding set of tasks that require documentary accuracy, regulatory knowledge and rigorous logistical planning in order to avoid border issues, sanctions, delays, unforeseen costs or even the loss of strategic clients.
Another key learning experience has been the ability to identify reliable sources and translate technical information into practical, understandable guidance for companies.
Working directly with real companies has taught me the importance of clear communication, technical precision, and professional empathy when providing tailored solutions. I have also observed first-hand the crucial role the Chamber of Commerce plays as a bridge between Spain and the United Kingdom, facilitating understanding between two distinct regulatory and commercial frameworks. Ultimately, this experience has shown me that international trade is not merely the movement of goods across borders, but the building of trust, collaboration, and shared objectives among those who make it possible.
This learning process has also highlighted the importance of teamwork. I began as a new member of the Team and, over time, gradually took on coordination responsibilities that allowed me to lead certain tasks and guide other interns. Now, as I complete this stage, I feel particularly proud to see this responsibility pass to a colleague whom I have had the opportunity to train and support throughout her learning process.
This internship has been an invaluable experience, deepening my understanding of international trade and demonstrating the lasting impact of collaboration, mentorship, and shared learning within a professional, cross-border environment.
Blog post written by Anaïs Kronengold, Foreign Trade Assistant at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK
