Boosting Kolkata-Yunnan trade on the cards: Sino delegation

Kolkata: A Chinese delegation led by Hu Rong, Vice-Governor of the People's Government of Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan province, which was currently visiting the city, has expressed its interest in exploring the prospects of trade and commerce between the two countries, more particularly between Kolkata and Yunnan.

In an interactive session organised by the Bharat Chamber of Commerce (BCC) at its office on Wednesday, Rong said that they are very keen on exploring the investment potential in the city because of its close proximity. Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, is at a distance of two hours from Kolkata by a direct flight. Hence, there are ample opportunities between Kolkata and Yunnan, not only in trade but in other sectors as well.

During the session, Vice-President of BCC NG Khaitan proposed that it can act as a nodal agency to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries, besides exploring the new avenues in the fields of agriculture, tourism and manufacturing industries. Khaitan also urged the Chinese delegation to consider the business prospects between Kolkata and Yunnan.

Rong assured BCC that they would look into the investment potential so that industrialists from one country can expand their business to the other. "We will go through the rules and regulations of both countries so that export and import between the two countries can be developed. Because of its strategic location, Kolkata would always be an important destination with regard to trade, commerce and tourism," Rong maintained.

He also said there was lot of potential in the tourism sector. People from this part of the country can visit Yunnan which is famous for its scenic beauty. The weather in Yunnan province has always been pleasant, members of the delegation said. "On behalf of BCC we would like to urge the Chinese delegation to strengthen the collaboration between the members of our chamber and the industries in their province to explore business potential between the two countries," Khaitan said.