Cork Chamber launches China section on new Website

15th December 2010

Cork Chamber has launched a new section to its’ website, focusing on China. Following on from the very successful Cork trade mission to China in September, the Chamber has dedicated a section of its’ new website with information on the business links that have been established in China.

Katherine Fitzpatrick, EU, Trade & Innovation Services Manager at the Chamber said, “Huge opportunities exist for Irish businesses in China. However thorough preparation and market research are key to doing business there successfully. Companies must have a clear strategy and be prepared to invest time and resources in China, often over a period of years, before they can expect any kind of return on their investment. Our new web pages provide companies with information about where to access guides to doing business in China and also feature advice from companies already doing business in the Chinese market. Furthermore, the site will be highlighting the links that have been made by other Cork organisations with local government and Universities in China and in particular in Shanghai which signed a Sister-City Agreement with Cork five years ago to forge links in the areas of business, education, local government and culture”.

Chamber member Bob Gee, Managing Director of Connect Promotions, has been doing business in China since 1994. He says, “As the “factory to the world” China has a lot to offer. However, as with any overseas trade, there are some extra factors to consider. Wage inflation, commodity shortages, and currency concerns are all in open discussion this year and prices are edging upwards. Patience and good local contacts are the most important recommendations I can suggest in relation to doing business with China. The Chinese like to spend time getting to know you and that may involve several visits before progress can be made. Equally you are likely to find day-to-day correspondence can be slow due to time zones and language. In both cases, a local representative can be a huge help. Cork Chamber can tap into their network through local Chambers in China and there is a strong linkage between UCC and Shanghai Universities".

Ms Fitzpatrick added that, “Cork Chamber is working closely with undergraduate and postgraduate students from China studying in UCC with the support of the International Education Office and the School of Asian Studies”.
All companies looking for information about the Chinese market should visit the Chamber website at http://www.corkchamber.ie/Cork_and_China.cfm or contact the Enterprise Europe Network office at the Chamber for further details about doing business in China or other foreign markets.

Return to the News section