UK trade delegation at 'Petrotech' reaffirms commitment to India

More than 20 British companies are participating in Petrotech - India's flagship event on oil and natural gas, to exchange views, expertise and experiences in the field.

The event, which is being held from December 4-7, will witness a UK trade mission that includes world-leading companies that bring real competitive advantage to the economy.

British expertise and knowledge in oil and gas is in demand across the world and Scotland has become a significant global hub for development in this area.

The visit has been organised by Scottish Development International (SDI) and the Department for International Trade (DIT), in response to supply chain opportunities presented by recent announcements from the Government of India (GOI) and a visit to Aberdeen from India's Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan in September.

Scotland's oil and gas industry is a 50 year success story and has played a critical role in the world's economy. Despite global recession, Scotland's world class expertise has allowed record exports of products and services in oil and gas. Total supply chain sales are now worth in excess of £22bn a year, with direct international sales accounting for almost half that figure.

Cherise Mascarenhas, Country Head - India, Scottish Development International said, "Scotland's Energy sector is a force to be reckoned with and I am delighted to welcome such a large delegation representing Scotland's Oil & Gas industry. In recent times, the global climate in the Oil & Gas sector has been challenging and it is very encouraging that Scotland's supply chain continues to seek opportunities both domestically and in overseas markets. Scotland recognises India's ambitious plans for the Energy sector and is keen to be a strategic partner in this journey. I look forward to significant partnerships and trade deals being forged as a result of this mission."

At Petrotech, a new Gas Forum designed with UK support will be launched on December 6 to provide stakeholders with a platform to shape the development of India's gas market.

British companies are also participating in the exhibition and showcasing their cutting edge technologies.