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  • Frances Harder, Author of Fashion for Profit

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Economies and People are Interdependent – The China Connection

If we look at this graph I think it tells it all! China is now responsible for purchasing 48% of ALL branded products. How important will be that we partner with them?

China Graph

Shopping Shifts East

I was recently cordially invited to attend an invite only event for US companies to present their product for potential investment. There are many new opportunities for US brands to find a Chinese investor. They are looking for US companies who have begun to experience expansion and growth, plus begun the branding process. US companies should have a viable business and financial plan.

The meeting was planned to meet with a business delegation from Shanxi Province of China for business networking to interact and explore opportunities between my business or any within my FBI members network ready for this opportunity. The Chinese companies are leaders and best performers in their industry and sectors. I had opportunity to present and establish contacts and discuss in depth with 12 business owners and/or executives in a Round Table session, where I could exchange information with them in terms of purchasing and sourcing, new product lines, R&D needs, market trends, potential investments, and form partnerships.

 Based in Beijing, this investment company is one of the most important and visionary companies in China to help Chinese enterprises to implement go-global strategy; to identify and develop diversified international footprints for Chinese companies, and help to stimulate local economy of international markets. It is also the contact point for global businesses to access Chinese companies and products, buying power, and investments. In the past ten years, they have created the largest overseas trade and investment platforms for China, through organizing large scale Chinese merchandise fair and trade show overseas, inventing and creating signature “Dragon Mart” in global markets, and organizing international road shows for enterprises and economic development organizations of China.

This is only the beginning and another example of why we need to grow our partnerships and develop relationships with China. They invest in a US company and then maybe they can get a Green Card! Win, Win!

In my next blog I will explain about another very exciting China Connection I am involved in.

 

 

Fashion Business, Think Globally

Thinking Globally

I think we all agree we have a very huge monster to deal with in China, which we (USA) are for the most part responsible for. However, I think that until USA follows our own laws of compliance in regard to Intellectual Property (IP) we will continue to have a problem internationally.  Additionally, I think it will pay off if the US could take the time to study and understanding international cultures. It is not all about the US!  Education in schools, colleges and within our businesses should focus on further education and incumbent workers training. The same curriculum is often taught for the past 25 years!!! Business and commerce has changed and it is a fact that in recent times it changes daily.

The US would be more advised to think Global in its overall approach in business and exports. It may also be a good idea to be more sensitive to the way business is conducted internationally. Have a cup of tea and take the time to know who you work with. In order for the US to survive our international depression we need to first get a grip here domestically and also understand the amazing opportunities that the US has NOW with exporting US products.  I believe we can survive and ultimately win if we react and adjust but it has to be NOW!

I am so very disappointed that there is a real lack of understanding for the need for domestic manufacturing to bring the jobs back. China is a massive growing economy and although there is much about their culture that is disturbing we should also recognize we have many problems here, which we need to address. Face facts that China is our future consumers. China loves “Made in the USA” and we need to focus and profit from this ASAP. It is a Global economy and we are all partners! I believe if we work together we all win. It will take a team!

Sincerely,
Frances Harder