Flanders, a northern region of Belgium, has kicked off an "eight-point China strategy," in a bid to attract Chinese firms there, a visiting Flemish Government official said.

Fientje Moerman, the Flemish Minister of Economy, Enterprise, Science, Innovation and Foreign Trade said recently in Beijing that the Flemish Government will set up its first Chinese service center in the region, specifically catering to Chinese companies.

It will be equipped with Flemish experts in administration and management and people who can speak Mandarin.

Moerman said a special welcome would be given to high-tech firms to invest in Flanders. For example, she said, "Chinese biotech companies can make use of bio-incubators at the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology. This will allow Chinese biotech companies to access the European market whilst creating immediate sales opportunities for their products based on the strong presence of the pharmaceuticals sector in the region."

Moerman said the Flemish business agency, Flanders Investment and Trade, will not only have to support Flemish companies in China but will also have to attract Chinese investors to Flanders.

Starting from the beginning of 2006, the agency will create a space on its website for information in Chinese. In August next year, a Chinese version of the legal guide for investors will also be available.

Moerman revealed that a Flemish representative office will be established in China, the first of its kind in Asia.

She said Flanders is an attractive location for Chinese investment, with its advanced logistical hub and complete infrastructure.

Chinese entrepreneurs have shown interest in the move.

"I am looking forward to seeing more details about the relevant rules and regulations (for investment)," said Jin Yong, director of Kingsphere Ecological Engineering Technology Co Ltd.

His firm has been working closely with its Belgium partner, J. Stevens BVBA Co, on environmental protection products.

(China Daily November 10, 2005)