NECD's Alan Di Stefano (left) and InvestHK's Mike Rowse at a placard unveiling ceremony

NCED's director of global trade and investment Alan Di Stefano explained the importance of Hong Kong for Nevada companies. He said: "Hong Kong is currently our eighth largest trading partner. We see Hong Kong as a gateway for most of Asia and the Pacific Rim, not only for two-way trade and investment but also for tourism."

Mr Di Stefano said the Hong Kong representative office will work closely with companies in both places to help companies increase their exports through finding the right distributors, identifying joint venture opportunities and establishing offices.

He added: "The opening of the representative office will serve to increase the volume of trade and tourism between Nevada and Hong Kong." He said Hong Kong's proximity to Macau was also another deciding factor. "One Nevada corporation has already begun construction of a hotel/casino/convention centre in Macau while plans are underway for another hotel and casino by another Nevada group."

The director-general of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong officiated at the opening ceremony.

Related links:
Invest Hong Kong  www.investhk.gov.hk
Nevada Commission on Economic Development www.expand2nevada.com/newsite/