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3 · Economic development and trade links
Turning international links into local opportunities.
Sister cities and partner provinces can open doors for local businesses. We help your council, economic development agency or chamber use those links well, without council having to become a trade agency.
Why this matters to us
Simon Appleton (方志杰), founder and lead consultant
My background, and my passion, is in uplifting people. Exchange and education do that, and they have been a big part of my work. But communities also need economic development to flourish: jobs, growing local businesses, and opportunities that keep people in the places they love.
I’ve spent years learning, and adapting, the best ways to turn sister-city relationships into economic development. It takes a lot of work and a lot of patience. When it’s done right, it’s some of the most rewarding work I know.
I see it as one whole. Friendship and cultural understanding come first. Once people trust each other and understand how the other side works, sustainable economic development follows.
Are you a business? This page is for councils and economic development agencies. Businesses can start at Trade & tourism.
How we help councils support local business
A
Introductions through your partner cities
The right counterpart in your partner city or province, checked first, for local businesses that are ready.
B
Business delegations
With your chamber or EDA: who should go, who to meet, and what to expect. Arrangements in China go through Beijing New Bridge. Eastern Bridge holds a 30% share in Beijing New Bridge, a separate company in China.
C
Market insight
Short, plain-English briefings on a sector or region in China, so your team can answer local businesses’ questions.
D
Checking an investor
An investor wants to meet the mayor next week? We check who they are first.
E
Training and workshops for staff and elected members
Practical sessions that prepare your people for international work: protocol and etiquette, hosting and leading delegations, reading an MOU, and spotting the risks early.
F
Training for businesses entering overseas markets
Workshops for local businesses that want to enter markets in China and Asia: how the market works, how to find and check the right partner, and how to build relationships that last.
Why it often works better through council
Chinese local governments usually expect to meet a government counterpart first. A council introduction carries real weight. We make sure it’s used carefully, for the right businesses, and that council isn’t left promising things it can’t deliver.
From our case studies
- Baxi Ice Cream, 2013–2016: helping Hauraki District Council attract and establish the investment, then building brand awareness in China
- Hawke’s Bay wine into Hangzhou
- Eastern Bay of Plenty business delegation to Jiangxi
Case studies are being updated for the new site.
For business associations and chambers
Chambers of commerce, sector groups and business associations can use the same links. We can help you:
- find out which sister cities and partner provinces your region already has, and who the right contact is on the other side
- run a briefing or workshop for members on doing business in China and Asia
- plan a member delegation that fits alongside a council or education visit
- host visiting business groups well, with a clear programme and follow-up
Talk to us about your members · See your region’s links in the directory · Workshop and delegation prices
Want your international links to work for local business?
A short call is the best place to start.