Global engineering group IMI is to set up a joint venture in China to supply the country's burgeoning nuclear power industry.

The firm has signed an agreement with Shanghai Automation Instrumentation Company (SAIC) to supply control valves for new plants.

SAIC are industry leaders in controls and instrumentation technology and were already important suppliers to the Chinese nuclear industry, IMI said.

The nuclear power market in China is expanding fast with 15 operational reactors, 27 under construction and more expected to start construction in the near future.

IMI said the new company would produce the valves at a new production facility to be built on the Chong Ming Island of Shanghai.

Completion of the deal is subject to regulatory clearances and is expected to take place within six months.

Executive Director Roy Twite said it was a very exciting opportunity for IMI.

"China is investing heavily in new nuclear power generation over the long term and this new venture will enable IMI to play a significant role in this development," he said.

"We are looking forward to building a long relationship with SAIC delivering industry leading critical valve solutions to the Chinese nuclear market."

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