Robert Scales and I will be attending a business forum organized by China Access 2008 next week on Wednesday, May 24th, prior to departing for China May 26-June 13th, directed at the Vancouver business community that will focus on providing a comprehensive strategy for opportunities in China, while also opening up the accessibility for Chinese companies to work in BC as well.

The forum will provide an understanding in how Chinese businesses function and operate, the on-the-ground know-how and negotiating power, all from people who are doing it now with success. Some of the many speakers at the event are:

Rashid Ahmed, CEO of Optima Health Solutions, will share his experience of recently establishing a joint venture with one of the largest hospitals in China, and is close to finalizing another deal with a medical institution in Beijing using technology developed in BC.

Neall Ryon, CEO of Stratex, will also be a part of a panel discussion. Neall visited China in the fall 2005 and has already initiated an engineering design business.

Maureen McKinnon of McKinnon Consulting Group is putting together the forum. She is optimistic that this venue will provide local businesses the chance to meet the people on the ground, adding "The focus is getting business done. These people have been to China and set up businesses and can share their knowledge".

You can register for the event on the China Access website and read more about the panelists and agenda. Mark it on your upcoming.org as well.