Initial assessment teams from the Chilean Exporters Association (ASOEX) have checked out damage to industry.

"We always thought an agreement with the United States would come before one with Europe," said Ronald Bown Fernández, president of the Chilean Exporters Association.

It was established by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association in 1999.

The Kenya Flower Council said 3,000 tonnes of flowers were destroyed and the Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya called the situation "disastrous".

Sir Richard Needham, President of the British Exporters Association.

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association offered support to the victims' families.

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association announced plans to expel 850 factories from its membership due to noncompliance with safety and labor standards.

The British Exporters Association has just published a guide to financing exports.

Hugh Bailey, of the British Exporters Association, said: "Anything that upsets trade is worrying and what's happening in the eurozone could have grave repercussions."

Nahid Hasan: Director of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association.