On 13 March, the UK signed a Statement of Mutual Cooperation (SMC) with Texas, the second largest state in the US, aimed at boosting trade, investment and commerce between the two regions.

This SMC focuses on sectors where both the UK and Texas share expertise, including innovative energy solutions (such as hydrogen and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage), life sciences, and professional business services.

A UK-Texas Business Reception, hosted by the Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, was held on the day of the signing of the SMC on Economic Development and Trade between the UK and the State of Texas. In attendance was the Governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, and representatives of UK industry with business links to Texas, many of whom operate in engineering, such as BP and JCB.

During her opening remarks, Minister Badenoch made special mention of ongoing efforts to promote the professional recognition of engineers between the US and UK, a reference to the proposed Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) between Engineering Council and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).  

Even prior to this agreement, UK companies had established close connections with Texas. There is already the BioBridge project that is helping 30 UK science companies expand in the state of Texas and so this agreement is seen to further strengthen economic ties.

The partnership will also facilitate the recognition of professional qualifications. Texas has already committed to the mutual recognition agreement for architects, which was reached by UK and US entities last year.

For more information, please visit the GOV.UK website.