Five new energy experts are to be appointed to support Scottish companies to maximise export opportunities in the energy supply chain.

The collaborative project, funded by the Scottish Government, Scottish Development International (SDI) and Opportunity North East (ONE), will see the appointment of five new energy specialists in markets identified as having significant growth opportunities.

Providing key connections between Scottish businesses and international markets, the new in-market specialists will build a network of customers, government departments, regulators and intermediaries in the USA, Mexico, India, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. They will also provide one-to-one support for Scottish companies to help improve market access, share local market insights and opportunities, and develop an understanding of key regulatory drivers and market regulation.

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Supporting the international growth of Scotland's oil and gas industry and wider energy supply chain for the longer term, with its high-skill jobs and productivity, is an economic priority.

Energy Minister, Paul Wheelhouse, said: "Our Programme for Government committed to expanding the network of in-market specialists to both identify untapped potential in overseas markets and to support Scotland’s export interests.

"I am therefore delighted that by working closely with partners in the industry and the public sector, we are now investing in energy market specialists to support the development of new and existing markets, boosting innovation and skills.

"These five new energy experts will provide a vital conduit between businesses in Scotland’s world class energy supply chain and new, international markets – providing knowledge and advice to businesses, and creating the vital networking opportunities that supply chain businesses require to get that all important 'foot in the door'.

"We know from experience in other sectors that this could have a hugely positive impact for those businesses taking advantage of this opportunity to access specialist market expertise and I am delighted that this initiative is well-aligned with the internationalization objectives of Scotland’s Oil and Gas Industry Leadership Group."