A delegation of private sector representatives, led by Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK, is on its way to China today for a week of presentations and meetings designed to build on existing good relationships with political and business leaders in the world’s second largest economy.
 
As the group prepared to depart, the Chief Minister explained:  ‘It is rewarding to know that the Island’s private sector consider visits like this to be of great value, not only to their businesses but to the economic development of the Isle of Man as a whole.  The participants this year were with me for last year’s visit to China and we will look to strengthen our relations as part of the broader strategy to raise the Island’s international profile and generate new business opportunities.’
 
The delegation will promote the Island as a reputable international centre that is an ideal platform for Chinese business expanding into the United Kingdom and Europe through an intensive programme of political and business meetings in Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai and Wuxi. The meetings start in Beijing on Monday (20th April) and conclude in Wuxi on Friday (24th April).
 
The Chief Minister explained: ‘It takes time to develop relationships in China and personal contact is important, so delegations like this are necessary if we are to bring more Chinese business to the Isle of Man. We already have good economic ties through our shipping and manufacturing sectors, but there are many other areas where the Isle of Man can work with China, such as providing a gateway into Europe for Chinese exporters.’
 
Mr Bell added: ‘Economic growth has to be a top priority for the Island to sustain job opportunities, living standards and funding for public services. The potential economic benefits of building business links with China are significant, which is why we are investing so much time and effort in our programme of visits.’