James Fisher Marine Services has signed a memorandum of understanding with Taiwan International Ports Corporation to explore opportunities for port services on the Asian island.
TIPC is in charge of seven major commercial ports, including the second largest in Taiwan at Taichung.
The companies said the collaboration will explore ways to broaden TIPC’s services and better meet the needs of the island’s emerging offshore wind industry.
Taichung Port president Chung Ying Feng said: “Based on the experience of established offshore wind markets in Europe and the US, we believe port services are an important base and gateway for its development.
“TIPC hopes to benefit from JFMS’s forward-looking approach to service integration and its proven expertise in the offshore wind industry to help us service this rapidly-growing market in Taiwan.”
The Taiwanese company has been involved in offshore wind for the last few years, and expects to complete Taichung Port’s first dedicated heavy-duty wharf for the sector in the middle of this year.
It is now evaluating the provision of wind turbine logistics and value-added services, such as operation and maintenance.
James Fisher Marine Services Taiwan regional director Richard Beattie said: “James Fisher continues to expand internationally and is ideally placed to support the requirements of global offshore wind farm owner/operators due to its experience in deploying UK skills and expertise to emerging and fast-growing markets worldwide.
“We believe this partnership will provide TIPC with the platform to be the pioneers in providing port services for Taiwan’s offshore wind power industry.
“Our proven experience in planning, designing, operating port management and ship refuelling services will help upgrade its integrated port services offer.”
The company has also set up an office in Taiwan.