British manufacturing could grow again by turning to emerging markets in 2012, according to a new report.

EEF has published its Manufacturing Executive survey and highlighted that exports to developing countries could be the way forward this year.

It noted that the economic outlook is uncertain at the moment and the main challenges will come from the unresolved eurozone crisis and how other markets are shaking off recession.

The survey revealed that manufacturers in Britain are more optimistic about growth potential in their own business this year, as most have altered plans for the future.

Non-traditional markets could be the target as the manufacturing industry responds to changing tastes of consumers and new supply chain opportunities.

Lee Hopley, EEF chief economist, added: "UK manufacturing has posted solid growth in the past few years but the environment has clearly become a lot more challenging."

Jim Brown, from BDO, recently said that Brazil, China and India were among rapidly emerging giants, while the CIVETS (Colombia, Vietnam, Egypt, Turkey and South Africa) could also be targeted by manufacturers.

Posted by Alex Donnell