"Increaseing Opportunities from China's Education Market" Webinar

"Increasing Opportunities from China's Education Market" Webinar: The U.S. educational institutions and companies can tap the increasing opportunities in China's growing education market by collaborating with Chinese educational institutions. Topics include: Overview of China's Education and Training Market; Domestic and Overseas Opportunities; Marketing Entry Strategies; Government Regulations and Requirements; Partnering with Chinese Institutions; Cultural and Legal Concerns, Q &A., etc.

When: August 3, 2008 2:00-3:00 pm CST or by individual appointment;
Registration: $90/person
Details: http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

"Attracting Asian Investors to EB-5 Projects" Presentation

"Attracting Asian Investors to EB-5 Projects" powerpoint presentation offers discussion on current Federally-designated Regional Centers that assist foreign investors in obtaining permanent U.S. residency utilizing the Federal EB-5 program. Topics include: Overview of Asian Outbound Immigration Investments; Major EB-5 Projects Available in Asian Market; the Characteristics of Asian Investors; Asian Investors' Decision Making Process; Developing Effective Marketing Strategies; Partnering with Asian Marketers; Cultural and Legal Issues, Q &A., For information & registration, please see: http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/eb5.htm

"Visting China" Protocol

到中国出差的“一般性文化注意事项Cutural Protocol”有7点：

（1）Conversation during a meal should focus heavily on giving compliments to the chief （在用餐过程中，谈话焦点应该集中于对领导的大力恭维）。

（2）It is customary to arrive slightly early for social engagements （社会交往一般要比约定时间稍微早到一些）。

（3） When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death or tragic events is not appropriate as it is seen as bad luck（在餐馆用餐，避免谈到疾病、死亡或者不幸事件，因为这被认为是不吉利的）。

（4） The Chinese do not typically use exaggerated gestures or facial expressions while speaking, and may find them distracting when done by others（中国人在讲话过程中不做夸张的动作或者面部表情，而且不欣赏别人做出类似动作）。

（5） Gift giving is important and somewhat ritualized. Avoid gifts of great value, as they may embarrass a Chinese person and may be declined（送礼很重要，而且要仪式化。礼物的价值不要太高，否则会使中国人尴尬甚至拒绝礼物）。

（6） People often decline a gift several times before accepting it. Be persistent until they accept（中国人收礼之前先要拒绝若干次，所以送礼的人一定要坚持，直到中国人接受为止）。

（7） It is customary to bring a gift when invited to someone's home such as fruit, candy or a souvenir from your home country（接受邀请去中国人家里做客时一般要带礼物，可以是水果、糖或者从本国带来的纪念品）。

“商务文化注意事项 Business Protocol”有8点：

（1） Introductions are usually quite formal. The Chinese traditionally nod or bow slightly when greeting. However, handshaking is also common and appropriate（互相介绍相当正式，中国人一般是用点头或者轻微的鞠躬作为打招呼的方式。不过握手还是最常见和恰当的）。

（2）If greeted by the somewhat uncommon custom of applause, the appropriate response is to applaud back （如果受到意外的鼓掌欢迎，最好是以鼓掌来回敬）。

（3）Appointments should be made in advance（约会必须提前确定）。

（4）Punctuality is very important in China for both business and social engagements（在商务和社会交往中必须准时）。

（5）Bring numerous business cards, preferably printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other（准备好足够数量的名片，最好一面是英文，一面是中文）。

（6） When referring to the nation on formal documents or speeches, it is appropriate to use the full title: The People's Republic of China（在正式文件和谈话中提到中国时，应该使用全称“中华人民共和国”）。

（7） Business is not generally discussed over a meal, though you may be treated to a banquet during your stay. If possible, you should always return the favor（你在访问中会被邀请参加宴会，但在用餐中一般不谈商务。如果可能，最好回请）。

（8） Business dress is conservative. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women should wear either a dress or a skirt and blouse（商务着装偏保守。男士应穿西装、打领带，女士应穿套装，裙子或裤子也可）。

2008 China International Leisure Industry Expo

2008 CILI Expo is one of the largest trade show for leisure industry in China. The trade fair will take place in June 2008. Interested party shall contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com for details.

The 12th China Public Security Expo (CPSE 2009)

The 12th China Public Security Expo (CPSE 2009) will be held in Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center, China. The expo is one of the biggest security exhibitions in the world. For details, please contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com.

The 14th China International Furniture Expo

Furniture China 2008 presents a truly unique opportunity to exhibit in front of a contingent of furniture professionals coming from entire Asia. The trade show proposes you a set of events specialized on Home Furniture, Office Furniture, Furnishings, Kitchen & Cabinets, Furniture Manufacturing and Supplies. Each of them tailor made to get you in touch with your business partners in the most efficient way!

Sourcing professionals know that Furniture China and its related events is the most comprehensive and effective show in Asia. Be part of this event by showing your products some 50,000 visitors from China and 17,000 visitors from all over the globe. Furniture China 2008 gives you the opportunity to build new business, entertain existing partnerships, present your products and designs and strengthen your company's ties in the region. For details, please contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

China International Business & Incentive Travel Mart 2008

China International Business & Incentive Travel Mart 2008 (CIBTM 2008) is an event that is dedicated to delivering new business opportunities for all players in the fast growing Business Travel & MICE sectors in China. CIBTM 2008 showcases the best Chinese and international destinations, products and services all under one roof and is the premier event in China for MICE (Meetings, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition) industries. The trade show will take place in Beijing July 3-5, 2008. For details, please contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com.

ABG Introduces "Managing China 2008" Seminar Series

"Managing China 2008" seminar series will help educate yourself or your employees on doing business with China. Artisan Business Group offers two unique and effective ways (webinars and onsite workshops) of training U.S. companies in successful methods of doing business in China. The new seminars include: "A Road Map for Exporting to Greater China and Asian Markets", "Compete to Win: Doing Business with China", "Effective Sourcing from China", "Introduction to China's Safety and Security Market", "Importing from China - Buy Direct from Factories", "Are We Ready for Chinese Tourists - Opportunities for U.S. Travel Industry".

We welcome inquiries from associations, chamber of commerce, colleges, international trade and small business assistance centers. For details, log on http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

Sales Leads: Chinese Company Seeking U.S. Log Home Manufactuer

A southern China based real estate developer is seeking a reputable U.S. log home manufacturer for possible business. The Chinese company is currently importing Canadian made log homes. However, Chinese customers demand U.S. made products. If you are interested in this matter, please contact Mr. Brian Su at http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

Trade Leads: Chinese Auto Parts Company Seeking U.S. Distributors

A reputable Chinese auto parts company in Shanghai is seeking U.S. distributors to market its aftermarket parts in the North American market. The quality parts are used for Audi, Volkswagen,Mercedes Benz, BMW, Opel, etc. The company has been in business since 1980s and certified with ISO9001:2000. Interested parties shall contact Mr. Brian Su at http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

Trade Leads: Chinese Int'l Travel Agency Seeking U.S. Parntership

A privately owned Chinese international travel agency is actively seeking U.S. travel agency or business consultation firms for possible partnership in organizing Chinese business travelers to the U.S. Interested parties shall contact Mr. Brian Su at http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

Trade Leads: China Company Seeking U.S. Distributors

A Chinese international trading company is seeking U.S. distributors to market its products: organic and inorganic fertilizer, tung oil, Phosphoric Acid (food or tech grade), monosodium phosphate (tech and food grade), sodium sulphate anhydrous, etc. Interested party shall contact Mr. Brian Su at http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

China Replaces U.S. as Chile's Biggest Export Destination

China replaced the United States in 2007 as Chile's biggest export destination, according to statistics released Tuesday by Chile's customs authorities.

The figures show Chile's export volume recorded a 14.7-percent rise in 2007, totaling 65.484 billion U.S. dollars, while exports to China reached 10.172 billion dollars, accounting for 15.5 percent of the total and making China its biggest export destination.

Meanwhile, China also became Chile's second biggest import source country, following just behind the United States after surpassing Argentina and Brazil, the statistics show.

Chilean entrepreneurs attribute the rapid growth of Chile-China trade to the free trade agreement with China which came into effect in 2006.

Cristian Garcia Lorca, chair of the Chile-China Trade Association, said there is still room for a further increase despite the rapid growth, and that Chilean businesses should make collective efforts to diversify the country's exports to China.

The Central Illinois China Business Council

The Central Illinois China Business Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the growth of business between organizations in Greater China and those in the Central Illinois region.

The Central Illinois China Business Council is to promote the growth of business between organizations in Greater China and those in Central Illinois through commercial, educational and cultural relationships. For details, contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Introducing "China Market Entry Package"

Is your company ready for doing business with China? Our "China Market Entry Package" will not only help you promote your products to China market but also satisfy the needs of Chinese buyers and consumers! Our Chinese language translation and design package includes: one-page PDF file of your company introduction with business logo, photos and contact information, this downloadable file would make a great addition to your existing website; one-page business brochure (MS Word file) with logo and contact information that you can use as hand-outs to Chinese buyers at trade events, you'll receive the original file for future duplications. Log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com to order your package at $599 today! Save big on translations and great deal for any types of business! We will contact you once the order is placed.

China Tips: Buying Residential Property in Beijing

Foreigners who intend to buy a house in Beijing need a certificate issued by the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau to prove that they have stayed in China for at least one year for reasons of work or study, according to a statement jointly issued by six ministries led by the Construction Ministry.

The rule required that foreigners only use and dwell in the house themselves and not buy a house for other purposes.

Foreigners were also required to use their real names when buying a house in China.

Residents from China's Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, Taiwan and overseas Chinese should also be in possession of proper certificates when buying a house.

Foreign organizations, that set up branches or agencies in Beijing should provide certificates to prove their legal status in the city and give written guarantees that the houses they buy are only used for their own needs.

Foreign organizations and foreign individuals who want to buy houses in Beijing, other than for their own needs, should apply to set up a foreign company first.

If they want to buy houses to rent or sell or change them for commercial use, they should apply to set up a foreign company and obtain an operations certificate.

Foreign embassies in China, representatives of international organizations and people who enjoy diplomatic privileges should have a note of approval to buy a house from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Inquiries can be made to the Public Security Bureau by telephoning 8402-0101.

Dunkin' Donuts Coming to China

Dunkin' Donuts said it plans to open its first shop in Shanghai this spring, with 100 more Chinese franchise locations planned over the next 10 years.

The Canton-based seller of coffee and baked goods also plans an additional 10 shops this year in Taiwan, where it opened its first location in January 2007. Dunkin' Donuts now has 10 shops in Taipei, Taiwan, operated by franchise partner Mercuries & Associates.

Dunkin' Donuts recently granted Taiwan-based Mercuries franchise rights in Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu and Zhijiang.

The mainland China shops will offer coffee, espresso, teas and frozen drinks, along with doughnuts, bagels and other baked goods. The shops also will serve items customized for local tastes such as green tea and honeydew melon doughnuts, as well as mochi rings, which are similar to cake doughnuts but made with rice flour indigenous to the region.

Dunkin' Donuts, a subsidiary of Dunkin' Brands Inc., calls itself "the number one retailer of hot regular coffee by the cup" in the United States. It has nearly 7,900 restaurants in 31 countries, mostly in the United States. Dunkin's chief rival is Seattle-based Starbucks Corp., with more than 15,000 stores in 44 countries.

Business in China - Government Policy Briefing

　　
　　Marketing Policies

　　In 2002, the total retail sales of consumer goods topped 4 trillion yuan to reach 4,091.1 billion yuan, up 8.8 percent over the previous year. The real growth of total retail sales of consumer goods was 10.2 percent if price factor was taken into consideration.

　　The annual per capita disposable income of urban households was 7,703 yuan in 2002, a real increase of 13.4 percent with decline in prices taken into consideration. The per capita net income of rural households was 2,476 yuan, a real increase of 4.8 percent. The Engel coefficients were 37.7% for the urban households and 46.2% for the rural households, down by 0.2 percentage points and 1.5 percentage points respectively over the previous year.

　　I. Pricing Policies
　　China currently applied a mechanism of market-based pricing under macro-economic adjustment. There were presently three types of prices: government price, government guidance price and market-regulated price.

　　 The government price was set by price administration authorities and could not be changed without the approval of these authorities. Products and services subject to government pricing were those having a direct bearing on the national economy and the basic needs of the people‘s livelihood, including those products that were scarce in China. Meanwhile, government pricing was product- or service-specific, regardless of the ownership of the enterprises concerned. National treatment was applied in the areas of government pricing for all imported goods.

　　The government guidance price mechanism was a more flexible form of pricing. The price administration authorities stipulated either a basic price or floating ranges. The floating range of guidance pricing was generally 5 per cent to 15 percent. Enterprises could, within the limits of the guidance and taking into account the market situation, make their own decisions on prices. With market-regulated prices, enterprises were free to set prices in accordance with supply and demand to the extent permitted by generally applicable laws, regulations and policies concerning prices.

　　 Due to the continued reform of China‘s price system, the share of government prices had dropped substantially and that of market-regulated prices had increased; of social retailing products, the share of government prices was about 4 per cent, that of government guidance prices 1.2 percent, and that of market-regulated prices 94.7 percent. For agricultural products, the share of government prices was 9.1 percent, government guidance prices 7.1 percent, and market-regulated 83.3 percent. For production inputs, the share of government prices was 9.6 percent, that of government guidance prices 4.4 percent, and market-regulated prices 86 percent. The share of directly government-controlled prices had been much reduced. China‘s price system was becoming increasingly rationalized, creating a relatively fair marketplace for all enterprises to compete on an equal footing.

　　China would apply its current price controls and any other price controls upon accession in a WTO‑consistent fashion, and would take account of the interests of exporting WTO Members as provided for in Article III: 9 of the GATT 1994.

　　II. Competition Policy
　　The Government of China encouraged fair competition and was against acts of unfair competition of all kinds. The Law of the People‘s Republic of China on Combating Unfair Competition, promulgated on 2 September 1993 and implemented on 1 December 1993, was the basic law to maintain the order of competition in the market. In addition, the Price Law, the Law on Tendering and Bidding, the Criminal Law and other relevant laws also contained provisions on anti-monopoly and unfair competition. China was now formulating the Law on Anti-Monopoly.

　　III. State-Owned and State-Invested Enterprises
　　The state-owned enterprises of China basically operated in accordance with rules of market economy. The government would no longer directly administer the human, finance and material resources, and operational activities such as production, supply and marketing. The prices of commodities produced by state-owned enterprises were decided by the market and resources in operational areas were fundamentally allocated by the market. The state-owned banks had been commercialized and lending to state-owned enterprises took place exclusively under market conditions. China was furthering its reform of state-owned enterprises and establishing a modern enterprise system.

"Effective Sourcing from China" Web Seminar

"Effective Sourcing from China" webinar is specifically programmed for companies that are seeking contract manufacturers for low cost and high quality supplies. Topics include: Overview of the China Supplier Industry; Developing an Effective Sourcing Strategy; Selection of the Proper Business Entity in China; Price Negotiation; Quality Control and Assurance; Suppliers Compliance Auditing; Legal and Cultural Considerations; Site-visit in China; Logistic and Shipment, Q & A. The webinar is provided thru individual appointment. Fee: $80 To register, log on http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

Compete to Win: Doing Business with Greater China Webinar

Compete to Win: Doing Business with Greater China webinar is designed to serve U.S. companies that are seeking new business and trade opportunities with China. Topics include: Opportunities and Challenges in Greater China Market; Chinese Economy (relative to your industry/business sector); Developing an Effective China Strategy and Business Plan; Evaluating Your China Operation; Negotiation Skills and Conflict Resolution; Difference in American vs. Chinese Management Style; Dealing with Chinese Government Agencies; Chinese Business Etiquette and Protocol; Chinese Corporate Culture; Intellectual Property Protection and Legal Issues. When: March 16, 2008 1:00-2:30 CST or by individual appointment; if you are not able to attend, you can order a copy of our PowerPoint Presentation at http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

ABG Offers Chinese Language Lessons

We have received several inquiries about learning Chinese language through Internet. Interested parties can request a quote and schedule at http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Importing from China - Buy Direct from Factories Webinar

Importing from China - Buy Direct from Factories webinar is designed to train entrepreneurs, wholesalers and distributors on how to import at rock bottom prices directly from manufacturers in China. Many trading secrets and tips will be shared. The courses will also cover logistics and taxation issues. When: April 20, 2008 1:00-2:30 CST or by individual appointment; if you are not able to attend, you can order a copy of our PowerPoint Presentation at http://www.MidwestUSAChina.com

Sales Leads: Chinese Importer Seeking Scrap Metals

An international trading company in China is seeking American suppliers that can supply various scrap metals in large quantities. Interested parties should contact info@midwestUSAChina.com

2008 Kellogg Greater China Business Conference

The 2008 Greater China Business Conference (KGCBC), “One World – Removing Barriers to Achieve Global Dreams,” will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2008 at Northwestern University’s James L. Allen Center in Evanston, Illinois. The conference will focus on the following key developments in China:

· Marketing in China: Connecting with 1.3 Billion Consumers

· Government Regulation: Adapting to a changing legal environment

· Asian Coopetition: Building strong relationships between China and its neighbors

· Global Dreams: Growing domestic Chinese enterprises

· Investment Strategies: Identifying successful opportunities in China

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact info@midwestUSAChina.com

China Tips: Applying a Chinese Driver's License in Shanghai

If you are over 18 and have a valid driver's license from another country then you will most likely only need to complete a written (computerized) test to obtain a 6 year Chinese driver's license for a minimal fee.

You should go to the Shanghai Driver's Licensing Centre: No. 179, Qinchun Road, Minhang District.

Office hours: 9:00 AM-5:30 PM on Monday-Thursday; 9:00 AM-4:00 PM on Friday

Tel: 021-64987070

Essentials:

* Bring someone with you who can write Chinese
* Take photographs at the center
* Collect a standard application form and complete the form in Chinese script
* Have a medical examination
* Have your foreign driver's license translated into Chinese at an authorized translation service center
* Take the papers needed (pictures, passport, foreign driver's license, and Chinese translated license) back to a reception counter
* Make arrangements to take the written test

If all of these steps are followed without incident, you may receive your Chinese driver's license within 5 days after passing the test and paying the fees.

Fees:

* Service charge: 5RMB
* License fee: 10RMB
* Written test: 40RMB (if you pass the first time)

5RMB +10RMB +40RMB= 55RMB total

"A Road Map for Exporting to Greater China and Asian Markets" Webinar

"A Road Map for Exporting to Greater China and Asian Markets" web seminar is intended to educate U.S. manufacturers, small business enterprises, agricultural exporters, economic development executives and trade officials on the promising opportunities in China and Asian markets. The session offers key factors and knowledge you need to know about exporting US-made products and services to the Far East market.

Overview: . U.S. exports to China grew 32% from 2005 to 2006, 240% since 2000. China is not just a source of imports; it is also a large and growing market for U.S. exports. California, with record exports in 2006 of $9.97 billion, Washington with $6.8 billion, and Texas with $6.6 billion lead all states in the export race to China. While many U.S. companies desire to grow a brand name in this lucrative market, most do not have the local marketing or cultural knowledge to get established in the Chinese environment. This WEBINAR will help you better understand the challenges and opportunities presented by Great China and Asian markets.

Topics: Opportunities and challenges in China and Asian markets; Selling U.S. products and services; Leading sectors for U.S. export; Logistic and finance; Trade regulations and requirements, Legal considerations; Chinese and Asian business protocol; Key cultural issues; and Export assistance and resources.

When: March 8, 2008 1:00-2:30 Central Standard Time (CST)

Registration: http://www.midwestUSAChina.com $80/person. One time processing fee is required. A registration confirmation and instruction will be sent via email.

Where: from the convenience of your desk at home or office

Website Consolidation Notice

In order to better serve our clients, we are now consolidating two business websites: ArtisanBusinessGroup.com and MidwestUSAChina.com. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@MidwestUSAChina.com

Website is Down

Our website MidwestUSAChina.com is down due to server problem. Our hosting provider is now trying to get the problem fixed this weekend. If you have any questions about our web seminar, please email: artisanbusiness@yahoo.com

Online Consulting Available

Brian Su is now available for online consultation thru email and chat. Web seminars are also offered on regular basis. Simply click "Virtual Office" icon on the blog, you will be able to request for online consultation sessions.

Introduction to China's Safety and Security Market

The web seminar will review the potential business opportunities in China's public safety and security market, and coach you on building effective network and government ties. Topics include: Overview of China's public safety and security industry; Introduction to China's major regulators; Best prospects for U.S. companies; Developing an effective business strategy; Legal Considerations, Key Cultural Issues; etc.
When: February 10, 2008 1:00-2:30 CST
Fee: $80/person
Registration: http://midwestusachina.com/china_safety.htm

Are We Ready for Chinese Tourists - Opportunities for U.S. Travel Industry

The web seminar is intended to educate U.S. tour operators, inn keepers, hospitality managers, airline executives, local government and tourism officials on the promising opportunities in China's outbound tourism. Topics include: China Outbound Tourism Market Overview, Top Destinations and Popular Activities in the U.S.,Characteristics of Chinese Tourists and their Decision Making Process, U.S. Visa Situation, Key Cultural Issues and Marketing Strategies, Partnering with Chinese Tour Operators, Q &A., etc.
When: Feb. 18, 2008 1:00-2:30 pm CST
Fee: $70/person
Registration http://midwestusachina.com/travel_seminar.htm

ABG Assists China Trade Mission Efforts

ABG has been assisting the South Dakota International Business Institute in organizing a China Trade Mission to visit the state. In partnership with China Council for the Promotion of International Business Guizhou Province Sub-council, ABG is in the process of helping to select mission delegates in China.

Caterpillar acquires Shandong Machine Maker

Caterpillar Inc said yesterday it has completed acquiring the remaining stake in a loading-machine maker in northern China, in which it took a minority stake in 2005 to support its growing customer base in the Chinese construction equipment industry.

The deal, with no financial terms disclosed, turned Shandong SEM Machinery Co a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar, the world's biggest maker of bulldozers and excavators, the Illinois-based company said.

Caterpillar bought a 40-percent stake of Shandong SEM in 2005. The acquisition of the remainder has gained approval from the Chinese government.

Shandong SEM, which produces machines used for scooping and carrying earth or coal, has a total asset of 1.6 billion yuan (US$219 million) and employs 2,200 staff, with more than 130 sales agencies around the country, according to its website.

Apart from Shandong SEM's products, Caterpillar also manufactures in China hydraulic excavators, motor graders, paving products, large diesel engines used primarily for marine and power generation applications, and generators.

These products are sold in China and other markets in the Asia Pacific region.