Governor Beshear Hosts Chinese Chamber for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronics Delegation

Press Release

Gov. Steve Beshear today welcomed Madam Yao Wenping, Vice President of the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronics (CCCME) and a delegation of more than 60 business representatives for a two-day visit to Kentucky. The group chose Kentucky as one of three stops on their U.S. mission, which is part of China President Hu Jintao's U.S. visit taking place Jan. 19-21. CCCME chose Kentucky in part for its shared goal to increase global business connections.

"Kentucky is honored to host Madam Yao Wenping and the entire CCCME delegation as we work to create an ongoing partnership built on mutual goals," said Gov. Beshear. "We plan to showcase the many business advantages Kentucky has to offer and to relay that Kentucky welcomes trade and investment opportunities."

The CCCME delegation includes private and state-owned Chinese enterprises representing more than a dozen industry sectors, including automotive, alternative energy, environmental technology, machinery and electronic manufacturing and more. Earlier today Gov. Beshear and key partner organizations held a seminar and luncheon for the group at the Governor's Mansion. Their stay will also include industry visits and cultural tours designed to showcase Kentucky's business climate and quality of life assets.

Another important and symbolic component of the CCCME's visit is the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between CCCME and the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM). Gov. Beshear, Madam Yao Wenping and KAM President Greg Hidgon today participated in the signing ceremony, solidifying the common objectives to promote an expansion of trade and investment between Kentucky and Chinese industries.

"On behalf of KAM, we are excited to join the China Chamber of Commerce in a collaborative agreement to promote economic growth for our manufacturing companies and communities," said Greg Higdon, KAM President & CEO. "Building mutually beneficial relationships with China and other growing foreign economic powers will facilitate the creation of valuable economic opportunities for our Commonwealth."

CCCME is the largest of seven import/export associations under the direct administration of the Ministry of Commerce. Its membership includes approximately 10,000 member companies in a wide variety of industry sectors. The organization has a genuine interest in finding opportunities to do business in the American market, a market that is perceived to be very difficult to enter.

"The ability to strengthen commercial ties between China and Kentucky is a very important part of growing our economy and creating job and investment opportunities," added Gov. Beshear. "This is a prime opportunity to cultivate relationships and provide positive match-marketing opportunities that will benefit both parties."

Information on Kentucky's economic development efforts and programs is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com.

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