Helping UK companies

Hong Kong has always been an important trading partner for UK companies, not only in its own right but also as a gateway to the Chinese mainland.

China is currently the world's fastest-growing major economy, with exports and imports grew by over 25% and 20% respectively in 2007. As trade barriers come down, this opens more exciting opportunities for UK companies.

Long a major exporter of cost-competitive, quality products, China is now also a major importer. A growing middle class, with strengthening buying power, coupled with fast-modernising Chinese companies, is creating a strong market for international partners and suppliers.

But China, with its unparalleled size and unfamiliar business culture, is not without its challenges. In particular, SMEs, with little time or appetite for risk, are often deterred from exploring this market.

Approaching the market through Hong Kong can mitigate many of these risks. Hong Kong companies have a long history of international business, coupled with a quarter of a century's experience and networks in the Chinese mainland. Partnership is a popular business model for many UK companies that are already doing business in this region.

The Hong Kong-UK Partnership, using the resources and experience of UK Trade & Investment and HKTDC, can help your company find the best business partner for success.