Out for a piece of China market
Ong: Malaysian companies will aim to make greater impact
NANNING: Malaysia has more than just durian, bird’s nest and coffee.
The country is introducing more Malaysian-made products to the Chinese after conquering their taste buds.
Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Dr Ong Kian Ming said a variety of goods would be making its way into the vast market of China.
“We see a more diverse group of companies this year,” he told a press conference after opening the Malaysia Pavilion at the 15th China-Asean Expo here yesterday.
He said Malaysian items making their maiden appearances at the expo are batik, perfume, skincare products and handicraft.
“Of course, the food and beverage sector is still going very strong. We brought in many new choices,” he said.
More than 170 exhibitors of various sectors are taking part in the four-day event beginning today, making the country’s pavilion the largest among Asean countries.
“I met some exhibitors who are here for the first time and they are very excited to showcase their products to the Chinese,” he said after making his rounds at the exhibition hall.
Malaysia raked in sales worth RM405.5mil at the expo last year.
The figure for this year is expected to hit RM450mil.
On another issue, Dr Ong said two Chinese corporations showed great interest in investing in Malaysia.
If successful, he said the companies would bring in a few billion ringgit of investments.
“I met them on Monday but I cannot reveal the details yet,” he said.
Earlier, Dr Ong officiated the Malaysia E-commerce Zone at China Post’s warehouse for parcels and cross border e-commerce.
The project is a joint cooperation between China Post and KCO Logistic with an aim to boost e-trade between the two nations, especially in promoting Malaysian products to the Chinese market.
At a meeting, China Post Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region vice-general manager He Beizu has proposed for the setting of its overseas warehouse in Malaysia.
He also expressed his hope for more cargo flights serving the Nanning-Kuala Lumpur route, which would help in boosting the industry.
Dr Ong said he would forward the proposals to the relevant ministries.