A MARINE engineering firm has signed its first contracts with Chinese-based companies after a trade visit to the Far East.

Billingham-based corrosion engineering company Global Anodes UK will supply corrosion- prevention equipment to several projects in the country.

It follows trade visits the company undertook with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) during the past two years.

Global Anodes UK supplies solutions to corrosion and biofouling in the marine, offshore and industrial sectors.

The company’s technical director, Andy Hatton, who has just returned from a further trade visit to Harbin and Shanghai, said: “It was hard work to build the relationships necessary to land these contracts and the support of the UKTI has been invaluable.

“Being able to visit China regularly has meant that we have gained insights and knowledge of the culture and business ethos of the market there.”

During the recent trade mission, Mr Hatton was able to meet potential clients and suppliers.

He said: “China has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and this is reflected in its ship-building and oil and gas industries, which continue to grow despite the effects of the global economic downturn. Gaining a foothold into the Far Eastern market has been crucial to us and meeting key decision- makers with the support of experienced translators was incredibly useful.”

The next UKTI market visit to China, which will include opportunities in Chongqing, Chengdu and Shanghai, will be in October.

For more information call on 0845-0505-054 or email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk