The B.C. government has opened its first trade office in Hong Kong, as part of a tour of the region that includes a speech by Premier Christy Clark to world economic leaders.
Clark announced the new trade and investment office Monday, which she said will boost investment opportunities and connect B.C. businesses with new markets and opportunities in Hong Kong.
It will be the province's 10th international trade and investment office, and should be open by November, the government said in a statement.
The move comes as Clark tours China in preparation for a presentation to 1,500 business leaders at the World Economic Forum today.
Clark will speak on a natural resources panel, along with the premiers of Alberta and Saskatchewan. She's expected to focus on B.C.'s liquefied natural gas industry and the potential export demand in Asia.
The three provinces, which signed a New West Partnership in 2010 and operate a joint trade office in Shanghai, are also hosting a reception for business leaders to promote the themes of energy, agrifood and education.
Clark is then scheduled to visit Beijing on Wednesday before returning to B.C.
China is B.C.'s second largest trading partner. The government previously promoted trade in Hong Kong through an office in China's nearby Guangzhou which "has less expensive real estate," said Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Minister Pat Bell.
"Given the increasing importance of Hong Kong as a financial centre and investment hub for mainland businesses, the timing is right to provide more local support to accelerate investment here in British Columbia and increase trade," Bell said in a statement. [email protected]
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