Shanghai, China
In the many meetings I’ve attended in Shanghai this week, one theme resonates over and over again – the excellent quality and food safety provided by California farmers and ranchers. California products have a strong reputation, which has helped generate more than 350 meetings with members of our trade delegation in the short time we have been here. A couple of companies have already confirmed sales orders. China is a place for business and I’m happy to help bring a taste of California to China.
Trade is vital to our state – not only for our farmers, ranchers and food processors, but for tourism, investment and a variety of industry sectors. This is why Governor Brown is committed to trade and has selected China as the first place to re-establish a California trade office. This office will help to leverage California’s presence throughout China and bring more trade and investment opportunities for California businesses.
E-commerce is becoming a significant sales platform in China with on-line food sales experiencing significant growth and a target demographic known as FMCG, Fast Moving Consumer Groups. FMCGs focus on high quality and convenience – characteristics that are quickly defining the imported food sector. I believe California’s focus on healthy and nutritious products provides a great advantage in reaching this emerging online demographic.
As our trade delegation now moves on to South Korea, I look forward to learning more about the excellent business potential in Asia and helping California farmers and ranchers expand exports to these exciting and dynamic markets.
(Secretary Ross is in Asia as part of a trade delegation
funded by the California State Trade Export Program and facilitated by the
Fresno Center for International Trade Development)