A GROUP of leading Scottish chemical firms are part of a trade mission to the US to showcase Scotland.

The team, which includes East Kilbride-based NiTech Solutions, are attending one of the world's biggest chemical sector events.

Led by Scottish Development International and Scottish Enterprise, they are visiting Informex, which draws 4000 customers from 500 chemical companies worldwide.

It's hoped Scotland's first ever attendance at Informex, in New Orleans this week, will raise the prospect of new business for the chemical industry in Scotland.

The mission follows the recent launch of an ambitious strategy for the industry, called Chemical Sciences Scotland.

Unveiled last autumn, the plan aims to ensure a vibrant and competitive chemical industry in Scotland in 20 years.

The chemical industry in Scotland is the country's second largest exporter, generating revenue of £1.3billion a year, and it employs 14,000 people.

It is widely recognised as one of the most valuable industries to Scotland, with each employee in the sector adding around £76,000 a year to the economy.

Caroline Strain, head of chemicals at Scottish Enterprise, said: "The chemical sector is a major employer in Scotland and a sector which has the potential to create even more impact in the Scottish economy.

"A trade mission like this gives us the opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise in the chemical sector with other parts of the global chemicalcommunity.

"It also provides the ideal forum for raising the profile of the industry in Scotland, with the potential of attracting investment to our shores."

Last month, Strathclyde University opened its new £2million chemical engineering labs.

The university already has a strong reputation in energy research and works with some of the leading companies in the US.