Businesses debate how to break into Chinese markets

North East firms have been considering the investment potential of Hong Kong as a gateway to broaden their exports to China.

In a unique debate that centred around ‘The Hong Kong’ question, North East companies questioned whether Hong Kong is still a vital gateway to the Chinese markets.

The event was organised by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) in collaboration with global law firm DLA Piper, the China-Britain Business Council and the Hong Kong-UK Business Forum.

Held at Beamish Hall in Stanley, it was set out as a traditional debate, with speakers representing both side and a judge and clerk dressed in courtroom regalia.

The debate focussed on the question “Is investing in Hong Kong still the essential gateway to doing business in mainland China?”

David Marsden, Director, UK Benelux & Ireland for the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and Richard Flood, Deputy Trade Commissioner, UK Trade & Investment set out the argument for Hong Kong as a gateway to China.

Highlighting the opportunities in China’s major cities was Simon Murphy, Associate for DLA Piper UK LLP, while Vince Cunningham, China Business Advisor for the China-Britain Business Council highlighted opportunities in China’s second tier cities.

During the event seasoned investors shared their experiences of establishing and operating a business in Hong Kong and China.

Josh Wong, Partner, UK-China Desk at DLA Piper UK LLP, who was chairman for the event, said:“It was great to see the opportunities offered by the great city of Hong Kong presented in this unique and balanced way and the audience really entered into the spirit of the event.”

The event, held yesterday, also saw the launch of of a new “Access China competition” run jointly by UKTI, Emirates airlines and export communications consultants Norma Foster Ltd.

The competition is open to all North East companies that propose to sell goods or services to China as part of an export strategy.

The prize is a return economy class flight from Newcastle to Hong Kong, Beijing, Guangzhou or Shanghai, a contribution to an Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS) report for China up to the value of £1,950 and a one-day export communication review provided by Norma Foster Ltd.

The winner will also receive the services of Dr Zhengming Yang, UKTI’s China Business Development Manager, to help ensure the company’s export strategy for China is implemented.

Dr Zhengming Yang, UKTI’s China Business Development Manager said: “The event is the latest in the China Networking Club’s programme.

“The club provides a great way for those involved in exporting to China and Hong Kong to meet with like-minded people and share their experiences and expertise.

“UKTI works closely with the China-Britain Business Council, RTC North, Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Institute of Supply Chain Management, local law practices and others to organise events and market visits to help those looking to do business in China and Hong Kong.

“China is one of the world’s fastest growing markets and offers many opportunities for North East businesses, but they do need to be prepared and we’re delighted to be joining forces with Emirates and Norma Foster Ltd to offer this unique prize.

“We would urge companies to get their entries in as soon as possible and for those interested in exporting to China and Hong Kong – or any new market – we would encourage them to contact UKTI to find out how we can help.”

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