Independent producers trade body Pact has published a new manifesto, which sets out its priorities in 2013. Launched during a Parliamentary reception in the Palace of Westminster, hosted by John Whittingdale MP, Chairman of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, the new manifesto details four key priorities: Efficient markets, International trade, Innovation and Social responsibility.

The reception was entitled Made in Britain, Sold Worldwide and this was a key focus for Pact CEO John McVay, who said indie exports have grown year-on-year and were up by 9 per cent in 2011. “In recent years we have seen remarkable growth in our sector, which is now worth £2.4 billion to the UK economy. It was great to have the opportunity (at the reception) to showcase the impact that the indies have had domestically and internationally.”

According to the Manifesto itself, total exports in 2011 were £1.5 billion. North America was worth £640m (44%) while Europe and Russia was worth £405m (28%). Australasia also continued to be a strong market for UK content, adding a further £164m (11%). Underlining the growing significance of exports, the manifesto says that international revenues accounted for 35% of total sector revenues in 2011, up from 17% in 2008.