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Mainland Europe is showing unprecedented interest in Hong Kong's business opportunities. The Director-General of Investment Promotion, Mr Mike Rowse, has been inundated with requests from business leaders for meetings during his six-day trip there.

Mr Rowse will visit Italy, Belgium and Germany between June 17 and June 22 on behalf of Invest Hong Kong, the government department charged with attracting inward investment and providing a one-stop shop service for businesses thinking of setting-up here.

In Milan, Italy he will meet representatives from the shoe, fashion and design, telecommunications and office equipment industries as well as an entrepreneurial association.

In Brussels, Belgium Mr Rowse will meet representatives from a chocolate producer and a leading transportation group.

In Frankfurt and Munich, Germany he will be seeing top management staff of banks, electronics engineering and radio communications firms as well as a chamber of commerce.

"Many European companies are already in Hong Kong and increasing numbers of their compatriots are becoming aware of Hong Kong's advantages, especially ahead of China's entry to the World Trade Organisation," said Mr Rowse.

"Invest Hong Kong began getting in touch with business organisations and trade bodies in Europe several months ago and we were overwhelmed by the response. In six days I will have separate meetings with more than 30 organisations, as well as roundtable discussions with the German pharmaceutical industry, various industrial associations and banks," he added.

Mr Rowse's trip to Europe is part of Invest Hong Kong's proactive strategy to reach companies who may be considering expanding into the Asia Pacific region.

He will outline Hong Kong's business-friendly environment and potential investment opportunities in the region. He will also tell companies how Invest Hong Kong can make the move to Hong Kong a smooth and easy one.

Invest Hong Kong can supply companies with a detailed step-by-step guide to establishing a business presence in Asia's most dynamic economy, put companies in touch with prospective business partners and facilitate liaison with relevant government departments and commercial organisations. InvestHK can also advise and assist on matters such as work visas, trademark registrations and other administrative, legal and financial matters.

End/Sunday, June 17, 2001

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