Boost business in Saudi Arabia on East of England trade mission

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Successful energy firms that want to increase orders should to sign up for UK Trade & Investment’s (UKTI) market visit to Saudi Arabia.

That’s the message from UKTI’s Middle East champion for the East of England, Leszek Wysocki, who will be heading up the mission to Al Khobar in the Eastern province from 22 to 27 November.

The mission, which focuses on energy, speciality chemicals and advanced engineering sectors, will give up to 25 firms the chance to meet with major companies in Saudi that are looking to partner with UK firms.

Leszek is keen that East of England firms sign up:

“Firms that are successful and selling products and services from the East of England can win orders in Saudi Arabia.

“There is such a huge appetite for the expertise that British firms can bring and this visit will give local firms a chance to meet with major companies from the area who are looking for UK partners.

“The East of England is a renowned hub for the UK’s energy sector, with at least 400 firms within the supply chain, with extensive experience and skills in every aspect, ranging from traditional oil and gas, to renewables. Local firms here have the experience and skills born of the region’s long heritage in offshore gas, conventional and nuclear generation, offshore windpower and biofuels.”

With a population of over 27 million, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Arab world, accounting for 25 per cent of the Arab world's GDP.

Leszek continued:

“Exports to Saudi Arabia are up by 29 per cent, showing that the high growth markets identified by UKTI are really coming to fruition.

“There is a lot of infrastructure and development in the region, with major opportunities across the energy sector: Their oil based economy has led to relatively high growth and economic progress over the past few years, allowing the Kingdom to increase public spending on infrastructure and welfare to match the increasing needs of a fast growing Saudi population.

“Due to the immense growth in Saudi I’d also encourage firms to attend who have expertise in associated renewable, environmental and educational sub-sectors along with companies with North Sea deep water experience, and those with a mining specialism.

“Of course, firms do need to be realistic: Saudi is a long term commitment which may require several visits before business is won, but the opportunities are enormous.

“Saudi Arabian companies are looking for help across all sectors and any companies interested in supplying the energy industry or supply chain will be able to find opportunities if there product sells well in the UK.”

The mission will include a reception and networking event at the British Embassy in Al Kohbar, a visit to the Saudi Arabia International Oil and Gas Exhibition, a dinner with the British Business Association and a combination of visits and business meetings with high profile Saudi companies relevant to the sector focus of the mission. Delegates can also set up their own meetings.

Companies have until 25 October to register their interest. Grants are available to reduce the cost of travel and the cost of participating in the programme of events.

ukti.gov