British trade delegation to explore opportunities in power sector

MANILA, Philippines - A British trade delegation will arrive in the country this week to explore opportunities in the power and renewable energy sectors.

The UK Embassy in Manila said the trade delegation, composed of representatives from Arup, CiDRA Corporate Services, Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon, Lloyd’s Register, Lucy Switchgear and TSORS Ltd. will be in Manila from Sept. 25 to 27.

The trade mission is being organized by the British Embassy through the UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) as it seeks to show the capabilities of UK firms in the energy sector and become the partner of choice in projects which involve addressing the demand for power here.

During their visit, the firms will be participating in PowerTrends, an energy and exhibition event to be held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The firms will likewise attended the UK Business Forum on power and renewable energy for them to be able to present to local industry players the technology and services they can offer.

To know more about the projects to address the energy requirement here, the UKTI has arranged business meetings for the delegates.

“The Philippines has been steadily growing and making its mark in the international scene, including energy. This trade mission will be instrumental for UK companies to assess the market in various aspects of energy development and power generation,” UKTI director in Manila Iain Mansfield said.

This, as the UK has established itself as a world leader in development of energy and carbon management systems.

Apart from the trade mission opening opportunities for UK firms to do business here, it is seen to help boost bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

“This is just one of the many activities we have lined up to boost bilateral trade and investment between our two countries. Our trade missions are part of the action plan to double trade in the next five years, as mentioned by our trade minister Lord (Stephen) Green during his visit to Manila last week,” Mansfield said.

 Green was in the country last week to discuss the upcoming Philippine trade mission to the UK with government counterparts, as well as commercial opportunities with business leaders.

Green said trade between the two countries can double given interest for products and services from both parties.

In 2012, two-way trade of goods and services of the UK and the Philippines reached £1.2 billion.