Derby council leaders meet Chinese counterparts on trade mission

A delegation of Derby and Derbyshire businesses and civic leaders, has travelled to China this week, as part of a wider Midlands Engine trade and investment mission.

They are visiting China with the aims of furthering civic and economic partnerships with the city of Hefei in Anhui province, which could potentially boost trade and tourism. They will also explore university to university partnerships, which could bring Chinese students and visitors to Derby.

Councillor Ranjit Banwait, leader of Derby City Council, said: “This is a big opportunity for the city, China is a superpower and we’ve got the opportunity to do business with them. This is our opportunity to be part of the world stage and to sit alongside the greatest cities in the world.”

Councillor Martin Rawson, deputy leader of Derby City Council, said: “Both cities have similarities, be that the passion and friendliness of our people as well as the highly successful industries both cities are home to. This partnership will open doors to so many opportunities for business, investment, culture and tourism.

“The visit is a very strong statement of intent and the synergies between the Derby and Derbyshire offer. The opportunities in Hefei and Anhui are very clear.”