CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwired - Oct 30, 2014) - The JiLin Province Department of Commerce celebrated the grand opening of its North American exhibition center today, sparking the beginning of increased two-way trade with the northeastern Chinese province. The event included a ribbon cutting ceremony, as well as remarks from both Chicago and Chinese officials.
"JiLin is an established manufacturing center in China and home to some of northeast Asia's leading companies in several categories including agriculture, technology and automotive parts," said Jeff Mahaffey, Executive Director of the JiLin Business Center and Chief Operating Officer of Global BioChem Technology Americas, the organization supporting the center. "There is untapped business potential in Jilin, and we're here to offer these goods to Chicago and American-based companies."
The center serves as a resource to American businesses looking to buy, sell and invest with companies located in JiLin. Product samples and information about some of JiLin's leading industries are on display at the center, and businesses based in Chicago can use the center to explore and purchase Chinese-made goods.
"Chicago has one of the world's largest and most diversified economies, with more than four million employees and an annual output of over $500 billion. We are delighted to acknowledge that the JiLin Chicago Business Center and Global BioChem Technology Group is a proud member of our Chamber," said Theresa Mintle, President of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. "We are confident that the opening of the Center will create new opportunities for both our City and the JiLin Province, and this cooperation will benefit both of our communities and bring mutual prosperity. We look forward to working closely with your Center in the future."
The JiLin Province is a manufacturing center for high-tech industries, a key factor in reaching $26 billion in international trade in 2013. Advanced technology and lower than average Chinese labor costs make production in JiLin both high-quality and affordable. As of today, more than 90 JiLin-based companies have already pledged to supply their products to American companies via the center.
"The JiLin Business Center is offering American companies a starting point for exploring the economic opportunities for their business in China as well as helping businesses make the right connections and grow those relationships," said Shu Luomei, Consul of Commercial Affairs of the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Chicago. "By working together, we are sure we can impact the bottom line of both the JiLin and Chicago economies."
"Mayor Rahm Emanuel has made stronger business ties between China and the Chicago area a priority," said Andrew Spinelli, Director of Global Strategic Initiatives for World Business Chicago (WBC). "WBC is pleased that the JiLin Department of Commerce has chosen our city for its North American exhibition center."
About the JiLin Business Center
The JiLin Business Center connects leading American and JiLin-based companies to buying, selling and investment opportunities that drive business growth. With assistance available in English and Mandarin, the JiLin Business Center staff helps identify new markets and sourcing solutions for companies across multiple industry sectors. For more information, visit www.JiLinTrade.com.
For more information about the JiLin Business Center or to schedule a visit:
Website: www.JiLinTrade.com
Phone: 312-750-9185
Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Central Standard Time
Contact Information:
Contact:
Emma Sheer
FleishmanHillard
312-729-3687