UKTI, which works with Scottish Development International and Scottish Enterprise, says it is not just oil and gas opportunities that north-east firms can make the most of in Norway.
It says mainland Norway is rich with minerals and that mining for precious metals and ores offers new and, to date, relatively unexploited opportunity.
Despite being home to some 90% of the world’s Arctic population, due to the favourable conditions brought by the Gulf Stream, ports and harbours are ice-free all year allowing the transport of goods and passengers, says UKTI.
Due to a small but growing population there is a need for new schools and houses, healthcare facilities and other services.
The construction sector forecasts 7% growth in this year and 4% in 2013. Projects include roads, office buildings, schools, hospitals and homes, says UKTI.
Work is planned to start on a new terminal for Oslo Airport-Gardermoen, giving welcome new capacity.
There are a number of significant rail projects in the pipeline including the 13.6-mile Follo line, 11.8 miles of which will be through a tunnel, which will give a high-speed rail link between Oslo and Ski.
In addition, the Norwegian National Rail Authority is undertaking upgrade and maintenance work of the ageing rail track network.
There are two ongoing electricity interconnector projects looking at interconnection between the UK and Norway.
NorthConnect and NSN, if constructed, would provide a green energy link across the North Sea, increasing security of energy supply.
There are other projects for additional interconnectors from Norway to the Netherlands and Germany.
Last autumn, Norway’s transmission system operator Statnett announced development plans for the Norwegian national grid, including a 10-year upgrade programme.
Low carbon options and energy-efficient solutions for buildings and industry are also sought after, says UKTI.
Norway has high ambitions of reducing its CO2 emissions and has set a target of a 15 million tonne reduction by 2020.
Electric vehicles are becoming a familiar sight – it is estimated 23,000 will be on the road by 2015 and Oslo is swiftly expanding its network of charging points and wants 400 in the next couple of years.
Norway produces relatively few consumer goods, providing an opportunity for companies looking to export products.
Scottish whisky is already popular, as is high quality clothing and speciality food.
UKTI says no other country in the world has a higher per capita spend on sports equipment and clothing than Norway.
In 2016, Norway will host the 11th Winter Youth Olympics.
Labour costs are traditionally high and skilled labour, most particularly in the offshore engineering sector, means that Norwegian business is quick to adopt labour-saving technology and innovative technology solutions. The healthcare sector in particular is looking for these.
Norway and Norwegians look frequently to the UK for education and research and development.
For more information contact the British Embassy, UK Trade & Investment, by e-mailing comsec@online.no or go to ukinnorway@fco.gov.uk
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