FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, August 9, 2006

COMMERCE SECRETARY GUTIERREZ TO LEAD BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MISSION TO CHINA

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez announced today he will lead a business development mission to China. The mission, which will include stops in Beijing and Shanghai from November 13-17, will highlight export opportunities for U.S. businesses in China. This will be his fourth visit to China.

“China is one of America’s fastest-growing export markets, representing billions of dollars for U.S. companies,” said Gutierrez. “This mission will help American businesses seize new opportunities there, expand and create more American jobs.”
Total U.S. exports to China in 2005 were $41 billion, an increase of 19 percent over 2004. Through May 2006, U.S. exports have grown 37 percent over the same period last year.

The mission will help U.S companies develop business and government contacts, solidify business strategies and obtain market access information. The delegation will be comprised of U.S. firms representing a broad cross-section of U.S. industries with commercial interests in China.

The U.S. and China have made progress in the bilateral trade relationship by expanding market access for U.S. goods and services, increasing transparency, and improving enforcement of intellectual property rights. As this progress continues, China represents an excellent opportunity for innovative American businesses to offer their products to more than a billion consumers.

“Fewer emerging economies will have a larger influence than China over the global economy during the 21st Century,” Gutierrez continued. “The prospect of selling to more than a billion consumers, together with China’s rising middle class, creates real opportunity for American companies.”

Businesses interested in participating in the China Business Development Mission can apply on-line at www.export.gov/chinamission or contact the Department of Commerce's Office of Business Liaison at 202-482-1360.