As China looks set to host the 2008 Olympic games this summer, North East firms are being urged to "go for gold" and explore the many business opportunities offered by this lucrative market.
As part of its ongoing programme of market visits, UK Trade & Investment will be organising a market visit to China - 26 May to 5 June - to enable companies to find out more about the market and meet potential customers.
China is one of the world's fastest growing economies - its economy has been growing at an average of almost 10 per cent a year since 1999 - and currently stands as the fourth largest economy in the world.
Dr Zhengming Yang, UK Trade & Investment's China Business Development Manager, explained:
"There's a great deal of excitement in China at the moment as Beijing gears up to host the 29th Olympics in August. And we'll be in Beijing at the start of our visit for a reception at the China Britain Business Council (CBBC) and a meeting with commercial offers from the British Embassy, Beijing.
"China really does offer many real opportunities for North East companies to do business and this visit provides an ideal chance to explore the market.
"We will be visiting Zhengzhou and Wuhan, two very important regions where Chinese demand for British expertise is strong.
"In Zhengzhou we've identified several key sectors where there is potential including food and drink, machinery, chemicals, construction and materials, electricity, gas and coal while Wuhan offers many high-tech opportunities in sectors such as the automotive, iron and steel industries.
"China is a diverse market but is accessible as there are little or no barriers and there is a well established support network for British businesses. And, of course, by joining us on the market visit delegates will be able to tap into all the support offered by UK Trade & Investment, our commercial staff in the British Embassy and our partners at the CBBC."
The China Market Visit, 26 May-5 June 2008, will enable delegates to explore the market with like-minded businesses and receive the full support of an International Trade Adviser and Dr Yang prior to, during and after the visit.
Companies have until 14 April 2008 to sign up for the visit. Eligible companies may also receive a financial contribution of £750 towards the costs of the visit from UK Trade & Investment.
For more information or to book a place contact the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk
