For membership application information, please E-Mail your postal address to danton@usip.com, and we will mail you an applications packet. Or call (213) 622-3194, ask for Raney or Agnes, and mention that you saw this on Internet.
BACKGROUND
Hong Kong and Southern California are similiar in many respects. Both areas are international business centers, and also serve as gateways to major markets. In 1986, the Hong Kong Association of Southern California was established to provide a forum where important issues concerning both economic and political developments of both areas could be addressed. Corporate and individual membership in the association is diverse and continues to grow. Our several hundred members includes professionals in industries such as banking, real estate, law, import/export, accounting, manufacturing and transportation. Those who choose the Hong Kong Association as a business partner will be provided with the opportunity to meet and network with others in the business community who share the same interest: Hong Kong and China.
OUR MISSION
The main objective of the Hong Kong Association is to strengthen business and economic relationships between Hong Kong and Southern California. Serveral goals which coincide with the association's mission are:
* To facilitate networking between professionals in various industries who have a common interest: Hong Kong;
* To present programs of interest and value to association members, programs which provide a better understanding of developments in Hong Kong and give our business partners in Hong Kong a better understanding of developments in Southern California;
* To act as a clearinghouse for information on trade and investment opportunities between Southern California and Hong Kong; and
* To promote understanding of Hong Kong in the United States and the international business community.
MEMBERSHIP
Individual ($35 per year), Corporate ($100 per year),
Student ($25 per year), and Sustaining ($500 per year)
memberships are available. Corporate membership allows up to four designated persons to participate in association functions, and Sustaining membership allows Corporate membership priviledges for five years.
PROGRAMS/BENEFITS
All indications point to a continuation of increasing trade between Hong Kong and the United States. The re-export business between Hong Kong and the People's Republic of China is booming, and United States companies have found that some of the best trade with China is occurring in Hong Kong.
Furthermore, because Southern California is a thoroughfare to Hong Kong, the area enjoys an enviable position and is assured the lead role in commercial and cultural developments in the coming years.
For those who are involved in this trade boom, participation in the Hong Kong Association and its events can provide them with a competitive edge in the busines world.
Regular programs include:
* Luncheon speakers who address current issues affecting business transactions with Hong Kong;
* Social events, such as the traditional Chinese New Year Celebrations, which provide a chance for members to better acquaint themselves with one another;
* Special seminar and workshops involving panelists or speakers who addresss a wide range of business issues; and
* Roundtable meetings which enable asociation members and visiting international businesss executives to exchange informaton and expertise in an intimate environment.
PAST PROGRAMS
1. HONG KONG BUSINESS - BOOMING INTO THE 21ST CENTURY
Mr. Thomas Lee Boam
Senior Commercial Officer
American Consulate-General in Hong Kong
2. HONG KONG IN TRANSITION - CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Mr. Victor Lap-Lik Chu
Senior Partner
Victor Chu & Co., Hong Kong
3. NORTH AMERICA FREE TRADE AGREEMENT
Mr. Carlos Casas
Trade Commissioner of Mexico
4. HONG KONG'S ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA INC.
Mr. Paul M.F. Cheng
Chairman
Inchcape Pacific Ltd.
5. LABOR WORKSHOP FOR SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESSES
A panel of four specialists on "hot" employment topics.
6. ANNUAL CHINESE NEW YEAR GALA CELEBRATION
The best party in town! Dinner, entertainment, dancing, souvenirs, and of cause lucky draws. Everyone goes home
with something.
7. ANNUAL FAMILY PICNIC
Roll up your sleeves and join us for games and a BBQ feast. Tremendous fun for the whole family.
8. ANNUAL TRADE MISSIONS TO HONG KONG AND CHINA
Economic briefings, factory visits, business seminars, meetings with senior Hong Kong Government officials and business leaders, etc.
Other speakers have included Dame Lydia Dunn;
Sir David Wilson, Governor of Hong Kong; Mr. Jack So,
Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tade Development Council;
Mr. Ernie So, President, Fond Express, Inc.; and
Mr. Christopher Cheng, Managing Director of Wing Tai
Garment International Ltd., Hong Kong.