Firms urged to trade with Hong Kong
HONG KONG may hold the key for Midlands companies looking to increase their penetration into the markets of the Far East and Asia, business leaders have been told.
Sarah Wu, the director general of the Hong Kong Economic Trade Office (HKETO), told a meeting of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce that firms should take a leaf out of the Chinese calendar – which this year celebrates the life of the tiger.
Ms Wu said the image of the tiger taking a brave leap and landing safely should inspire businesses to look to trade with China via the Hong Kong route.
She said: “It is very good for both organisations (CWCC) and Hong Kong remains an excellent route into China for companies in this area.
“This was a very good way to celebrate the Chinese Year of the Tiger and hopefully that image will inspire companies to look to trade with Hong Kong and China.”
HKETO has strong links with the CWCC and has received delegations from them every year for the past 30.
Mark Eaton, director of the China Trade Liaison Office at the chamber, said: “International trade is one of the key drivers to leading the UK’s recovery from recession and the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber helps hundreds of firms develop overseas connections.
“We have an enviable link to Hong Kong through HKETO and we also have a very strong presence in China.”
He said firms in the area enjoyed a close relationship with Hong Kong and this could only be of benefit to the region.
“China offers a great opportunity for many businesses in this region and Hong Kong can act as a soft landing for those companies looking to explore the potential of doing business out there,” added Mr Eaton.
A delegation from the chamber will be heading to China next month and 16 companies have already committed to the trip, representing products ranging from bespoke jewellery to vehicle washing systems.
Although this visit is fully subscribed future visits are planned for June and November and interested companies should contact the chamber on 024 7665 4321.
