On Sunday, Governor Jack Markell will kick off a week long trade mission in Taiwan and Mainland China, where he will focus on promoting activities that sustain and advance job growth here at home.
As one of Delaware’s chief economic advocates, Governor Markell will meet with companies, officials and investors to promote Delaware exports, encourage Chinese companies to choose Delaware for their U.S. operations, strengthen ties with companies already manufacturing in Delaware, promote R&D collaboration in emerging industries, and promote the advantages of incorporating in Delaware.
Trade Mission Details:
Schedule:
Governor Markell will be in Taiwan from Sunday, Nov. 7 through the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 10, visiting businesses and officials in Taipei and the Southern Taiwan Science Park in Tainan.
The Governor will then travel to Mainland China, departing Beijing on Sunday, Nov. 14 and arriving in the U.S. the same day.
Secretary of State Jeffrey Bullock will also be visiting Hong Kong and Tokyo, Asia’s leading legal and banking centers, to promote Delaware’s world-class financial and legal services.
Our Exports:
China is Delaware’s fourth largest export market. Exports to China in 2009 reached $298 million, growing 4.8% from 2008 , despite the recession, and 162% from 2005 .
With 1.3 billion people in Mainland China and 23 million in Taiwan – many of whom love Delaware poultry products – these are important markets for our agricultural industry
In 2009, Delaware poultry producers exported nearly $43 million worth of chicken products to Mainland China, up by 9.7% from 2008 and 80.5% from 2005.
This demand for chicken products also supports related businesses, such as corn and soybean growers.
Investment:
Many Asian companies are exploring opportunities to set up manufacturing operations in North America, so the delegation will promote Delaware’s competitive advantages for companies of all sizes.
For example: Motech invested in a Newark solar module manufacturing facility in 2010. This saved 75 local jobs and they have since expanded to add 75 more people to their operations. The Governor will be visiting their headquarters while in Taiwan.
Promoting Growth:
In order for Delaware small businesses to grow, many Delaware entrepreneurs need access to markets beyond our national borders.
The intricacies of dealing with regulatory and trade requirements both here and in China can be challenging. By establishing strong, long-term relations with businesses and government officials throughout Asia, Delaware officials are better able to assist Delaware businesses seeking access to and investment from these markets.
This mission also allows Governor Markell to build on Delaware’s success at attracting companies in Mainland China and Taiwan to incorporate in Delaware.
