Sales boost for oil and gas firms

The industry is now selling services to more than 100 countries

Scotland's oil and gas industry has seen a major boost in its earnings, according to a new survey.

Sales during the most recent full year rose by 10% to £14.2bn, with the supply industry now making 40% of its earnings from exports.

For the first time, the industry is now selling services to more than 100 countries.

The survey was carried out by Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Council Development and Industry (SCDI).

The major markets are in the United States, Canada, Norway, Russia and Azerbaijan, while the most rapid growth region for direct exports has been Africa, led by Angola.

SCDI North East manager Ian Armstrong said: "The global reach of the Scottish oil and gas supply chain continues to extend ever wider.

"This powerfully demonstrates the increasing international capability of the world class supply chain which has been built in Scotland and its performance is good reason to be optimistic."

However, the SCDI warned the sector faces difficulties, with high costs and a lower oil price affecting the ability of some companies to do business.