Government builds business platforms for overseas Chinese

A night view of the imported goods market in Qingtian county of Lishui, Zhejiang province [Photo provided by the market]

In the past, a great number of people from Qingtian county in Lishui, Zhejiang province sought livelihoods abroad, but nowadays, many of them are returning home for business opportunities.

Qingtian is renowned for its large international population. Emigration to overseas countries has a long history in the small county due to its isolation and lack of resources in the 1800s. Currently, there are around 330,000 Qingtian people living or working abroad, in more than 120 countries and regions.

As the county's economy is becoming stronger and local infrastructures are being constantly improved, nearly 100,000 overseas Chinese have returned to Qingtian over the last five years, with over 270 companies established and 94 projects launched. The total capital for investment and trade from overseas Qingtian people surpassed 200 billion yuan ($29.33 billion).

To reduce their worries and extend the county's welcome for their return, the Qingtian government has built several platforms for overseas Qingtian people to start businesses in their hometown, according to Ying Suwei, director of the local bureau for business attraction.

A market for imported goods in Qingtian, featuring products from around the world, offers a stage for returned businesspeople to display their talent in trade. A trade center providing services and information for overseas Chinese to invest and start businesses in Qingtian has contributed to the successful signing of 23 projects.

Dai Banghe, Party secretary of Qingtian, said in the future, the county will build 10 platforms, each with a raft of supporting policies, to encourage the return of overseas Chinese and investment from abroad.

Additionally, the government have announced plans to improve administrative and financial services and create a better business environment. Nowadays, people in Qingtian are able to exchange foreign currencies and apply for petty loans within walking distance. The procedures for entry-exit inspection and quarantine have also been streamlined.

Moreover, considering their needs for a livable environment, Qingtian is working to provide quality services in fields of accommodation and education for returned people.

The trade center which Qingtian has set up to provide services and information for overseas Chinese who have the intention of starting businesses in the county [Photo/Chinanews.com]

People browse imported wines at a wine shop in Qingtian county, Zhejiang province. [Photo/zgqt.zj.cn]