Scottish Development International (SDI) will lead a trade mission to Japan from 16-20th November to explore the opportunities in subsea mining and renewables across East Asia.
The trade mission will expose several British companies to detailed market insights and connect them with the key players in the industry, as they look to exploit the export opportunities in the world’s third largest economy. These companies will be given the opportunity to showcase their products and services to Japanese companies including Mitsubishi, Kawasaki and Mitsui, and get the chance to network with technical societies and industry bodies. They will also learn about Japan’s growing subsea industry and the opportunities which exist around development of offshore resources.
The National Subsea Research Initiative (NSRI) said it is also participating in the trade mission to learn about the ongoing initiatives that have been put in place to identify and harvest methane hydrates and conduct seabed mining in Japan, and identify how UK companies can help to satisfy the country’s vast energy needs.
Gordon Drummond, project director at NSRI, said: “The trade mission will allow us to gain access to detailed market insights and form partnerships that will help to build stronger business links with Japan’s energy industry.”
Following the shutdown of the country’s nuclear reactors in the wake of 2011’s tsunami nuclear crisis, Japan has gone in search of new energy supplies. The government wants to increase renewables from 10 per cent of its energy mix to 24 per cent by 2030, further reducing its reliance on gas, coal and nuclear.
“UK firms could play a major role in helping Japan meet its energy targets, exporting the wealth of skills, innovation and experience honed in the North Sea. There is much to be gained from doing business and investing in Japan,” Drummond added. “The country offers a stable economy, a reliable tax regime, an internationally oriented infrastructure and is well known for embracing new technology. By continuing to work closely with SDI we can identify the emerging opportunities and seek to promote partnerships with UK companies in Japan.”
Image: japanflag.facts