The 2024 Guangzhou-UK Economic and Trade Cooperation Roundtable Dialogue was held recently in Guangzhou. (Source: Guangzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce)
The 2024 Guangzhou-UK Economic and Trade Cooperation Roundtable Dialogue was held recently in Guangzhou, highlighting the city's vast consumer market as a prime opportunity for British businesses.
Over 100 guests participated in the event, including representatives from the UK Embassy in China, the British Consulate General in Guangzhou, the China-Britain Business Council, and numerous multinational corporations from the UK.
In her speech, Geraldine McCafferty, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in China, emphasized that Guangzhou catalyzes broader UK-China relations as a global center for trade, transportation, logistics, manufacturing, and innovation. She noted that British consulates across China are committed to providing robust support to foster effective exchanges and unlock more cooperation opportunities.
The 2024 Guangzhou-UK Economic and Trade Cooperation Roundtable Dialogue was held recently in Guangzhou. (Source: Guangzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce)
During the keynote presentation, Wu Bingxiang, Deputy Director of the Guangzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce, detailed the city's business environment and investment opportunities. He Junxiong, Director of the Haizhu District Investment Promotion Bureau, introduced the district's strengths in culture and tourism, commerce, ecology, innovation, education, and arts. Guangzhou Public Transport Group also outlined its international business development plans, offering comprehensive solutions for new energy digital transportation and cross-border logistics.
Tom Simpson, China-Britain Business Council's Managing Director in China, announced that the Council will lead a delegation of UK businesses to China in November. He anticipated further discussions with the Guangzhou municipal government regarding the investment environment. "This dialogue serves as a vital platform for British companies and the CBBC, allowing our member companies to present questions and suggestions to various government departments while staying informed about the latest policy trends in Guangzhou," Simpson commented.
The 2024 Guangzhou-UK Economic and Trade Cooperation Roundtable Dialogue was held recently in Guangzhou. (Source: Guangzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce)
"Guangzhou offers a tremendous consumer market," stated Michelle Liu, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Asia Pacific, Tate & Lyle. "We are considering expanding our business in Guangdong, particularly in Guangzhou, focusing on the biopharmaceutical sector. We hope to engage in deeper exchanges and explore potential collaborations."
As of June 2024, there are 420 UK-invested enterprises in Guangzhou, with actual foreign investment totaling $1.215 billion. British investments primarily focus on technology services, aviation, and wholesale trade.
Reporter | Nan
Editors | Will, James
