Portsmouth: Conference discusses China opportunities for local firms

Businesses in the Solent region are invited to sign up for a free half-day conference in Portsmouth on Wednesday February 12 to find out how, with the right advice and support, an increasing number of UK companies are finding the Chinese market a realistic and accessible market for their products and services.

The conference, which will take place from 12pm-5pm at the University of Portsmouth, will also explore the strong ties Portsmouth has with China through sister city links with Zhuhai and Zhanjiang, the dynamic local Chinese community, and how to get involved in the upcoming trade mission to China in November 2020.

Business who have achieved success in the Chinese market will share what they have learnt and businesses will gain insight from people actively advising and working with businesses to shape their China strategies. There will be two breakout sessions designed for either those just starting out in China or those looking to expand their existing business. Both will provide practical advice, potential next steps and the opportunity to share ideas and ask key questions.

Steve Pitt, Portsmouth City Council's cabinet member for culture and city development, said: "This free conference is a great opportunity for Portsmouth businesses and businesses across the whole area to find out more about the Chinese market. Following our successful trade mission to Bangladesh, we are planning a trade mission to China later this year. This mission will once again have a Team Portsmouth approach to ensure relevant businesses and organisations across the city work together to promote the city as an investment opportunity, obtain new contracts and boost education and tourist links."

Christopher Lethbridge, China market business advisor, China Britain Business Council, said: "With UK exports to China growing at 10% year on year in 2019, China presents an exciting and growing market for UK companies. The UK is renowned in China as being a source of high quality products and services, and this event a great opportunity for local businesses to learn about how to enter and grow in this exciting market.”

Kim Hayward, international liaison partner at BDO, said: “A number of companies in this region are successfully doing business in China, both exporting goods and with operations on the ground in China and we are actively encouraging others that we work with to consider the opportunities China offers to grow their business, and supporting those who are doing so.”

Director of UoP Global, Bobby Mehta, said: "We are pleased to be involved and hosting the 'Portsmouth Showcases the China Opportunity' event here at the University of Portsmouth. We have a large community of students from China here at the university as well as strong connections with numerous Chinese institutions.  We are always looking for new ways to help strengthen our relationship with companies, education partners and communities in the region."

Sign up now as places are strictly limited https://lnkd.in/dmZBguk - First register for the CBBC website and then sign up for the event.

The event has been organised by the China-Britain Business Council in partnership with Portsmouth City Council, University of Portsmouth, BDO, Albert Choi from the Portsmouth Chinese Association,  HSBC and Grandage Consulting.