UK firms find green tech opportunities in Asia-Pacific

A new report by Intralink highlights emerging opportunities for UK companies in the sustainability technology sector as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan advance their decarbonisation efforts.

The report, part of the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme, examines both the opportunities and challenges presented by these markets as they pursue ambitious net-zero targets and seek to enhance their domestic sustainability sectors. It also identifies specific sectors of interest to UK technology firms and suggests potential market entry strategies.

Key points highlighted in the report are:

Japan

Japan has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, with a range of government-backed initiatives driving a £12.7 billion sustainability market. Areas of opportunity for UK tech companies include:

· green hydrogen production and storage to support the country's energy transition goals

· renewable energy solutions, particularly offshore wind and solar power for application in densely populated regions

· smart grid technologies to enhance energy efficiency, grid monitoring and demand management.

South Korea

The South Korean government, together with 11 of its largest conglomerates, has pledged to invest £55.5 billion by 2025 to drive decarbonisation. The country's reliance on hard-to-abate sectors such as manufacturing presents challenges but also significant opportunities for UK firms in:

· cost-efficient renewable energy, including offshore wind, high-efficiency solar and energy storage technologies

· advanced carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) solutions to help reduce industrial emissions

· next-generation batteries to support the transportation sector's shift to sustainability.

Taiwan

Taiwan's sustainable technology sector is growing rapidly, driven by strong government incentives, advanced technological capabilities, and increasing public awareness of environmental issues. Key areas where UK companies can contribute include:

· renewable energy expansion, particularly offshore wind and solar power

· smart building technologies and the use of sustainable materials such as bamboo, wood and Insulated Concrete Forms for energy-efficient construction

· circular economy innovations, supporting waste reduction and material reuse.

Sam Leng, co-author of the report at Intralink, commented: "Japan, South Korea and Taiwan are seeking international expertise to accelerate their decarbonisation efforts. However, for UK companies, entering these markets can be challenging because of the different cultural norms, regulations and business practices."

"Through the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme, we provide the insight and support UK businesses need to navigate these complexities and develop successful market entry strategies."

The report was produced by international business development consultancy Intralink as part of the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme, which it delivers on behalf of the UK government to help UK companies expand in 11 Asia Pacific markets.