Governor Opens Virginia's First Local Economic Development Office in China

SHANGHAI, CHINA - Governor Mark R. Warner announced today that the Henrico County Economic Development Authority has opened an office in Shanghai, China, in efforts to recruit Chinese companies and encourage partnerships between Chinese firms and Henrico businesses.

“I am pleased to see Henrico County take this step,” Governor Warner said. “The county can play a pioneering role among Virginia localities in pursuing business opportunities in China’s dynamic economy,” said Governor Warner. 

“China represents a significant emerging market for the 21st Century and Henrico County wants to be positioned to take advantage of business opportunities,” said Patricia S. O’Bannon, Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors. “This liaison office will help Chinese companies to invest and create new jobs in our community,” said Chairman O’Bannon.

The Henrico County Economic Development Authority will partner with Forte International to operate the office in Shanghai. The office represents the first of its kind for a Virginia community in China. Governor Warner was the featured speaker during ribbon cutting ceremonies at the new Henrico office. The Governor is conducting a week-long trade mission to Beijing, Shanghai, and Ningbo.

The Commonwealth of Virginia currently operates several offices that directly target China’s economy. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership has an international trade office in Hong Kong as well as trade and investment offices in Tokyo, Japan and Seoul, Korea. The Virginia Port Authority operates offices in Hong Kong; Singapore; Tokyo, Japan; and Seoul, Korea. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has an office in Hong Kong.