Subsea firms set for 'huge rewards with international expansion'

Neil Gordon of Subsea UK will issue the growth call

The UK's subsea industry needs international expansion to sustain growth, a conference is to be told.

Thousands of people are expected at the three-day Subsea Expo at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC) which gets under way on Wednesday.

Subsea UK chief executive Neil Gordon said "huge rewards" could be gained overseas.

Subsea firms play a key role in North Sea activities, with about 50,000 people working in the sector the UK.

Subsea UK is urging companies to strengthen trade partnerships across the globe.

'World leader'

At Subsea Expo, the Department of International Trade (DIT) will be hosting meetings in a bid to meet demand in countries including Azerbaijan, Brazil, Mexico, Mozambique, Nigeria, Norway, Tanzania and the United States.

Mr Gordon said: "With around 50,000 people working in subsea production, the UK is the world leader in deep sea exploration and extraction.

"And, over 50% of the world's commercial subsea ROVs (remotely operated vehicles) are designed and manufactured in the UK.

"Now, more than ever, we must take this expertise to the markets that hold the most potential and who are actively seeking what we can offer.

"The demand is out there and huge rewards can be gained from expanding overseas."