Suppliers from developed countries such as the U.K. have started seeking markets in Asian countries, especially China, as demand at home eroded amid the worst recession since World War II, said Maggie Choo, Alibaba?s director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The company in April opened its London head office as a gateway for its push into other European markets.

Sourcing enquiries directed to Alibaba.com?s U.K. customers, mostly small- or medium-sized companies, rose ?sharply? from a year earlier, Choo said. ?This shows a strengthening demand around the world for British goods and services,? she said.

Agricultural products, home furniture, food and beverages are among the most-purchased British goods, according to Alibaba. The Web site has more than 450,000 users in the U.K.

Source : Konaxis