Member Article

North East firms head to the Arctic

The Russian Arctic has seen a spike in growth as a destination for exporters from North East England, particularly in the oil and gas supply sector. Several firms in the region have now been invited to attend or exhibit at a conference in the spring in Murmansk.

This is good news for companies that have already been affected by the downturn in energy prices, and are looking for new markets. Sanctions imposed on Russia by western countries have targeted particular producers there, but the supply chain remains mainly open.

Darya Trunova, chief project manager of the Murmanshelf Association, which represents contractors working on oil and gas projects in the Arctic region, said: “We will be glad to see colleagues from North East England at the conference. This year, our focus is on transport and logistics, their impact on the environment, and planning for emergency situations”.

Aidan Stradling, Director of the Anglo-Russian Centre in North East England, added: “The Murmansk region of Russia is the centre of oil and gas exploration for the Arctic, and we are working with the regional development agency there to open up opportunities for British firms”.

“This is a good chance for smaller businesses to meet buyers”, Mr Stradling continued. “There is likely to be a lot of interest in the top quality and high specification goods and services that our region can offer”.

The mission to the Russian Arctic is planned for 10-14 April 2016, to include the Murmanshelf conference on 12 April.

The Anglo-Russian Centre in North East England undertakes research into trade for businesses in English and Russian regions.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Aidan Stradling .