Manchester China Forum Information

The Manchester-China Forum’s over-arching aim is to build strong, long-term, coordinated links between Manchester and China. Established in 2013 by the Ex-Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osbourne MP, the Forum received acclaim as a highly innovative and now successful initiative that works to ensure Manchester is equipped and ready for China’s rapid growth and the opportunity that this presents. We are a public-private partnership with strong links and influence, putting us in a unique position to drive forward the Manchester-China agenda. This approach has strengthened the region’s relationship with China and has resulted in an increase in commercial activity, the launch of direct routes to Beijing and Hong Kong, and President Xi’s visit to the city. Since the inception of the Manchester-China Forum inward investment into Manchester from China has grown enormously, totalling over £3bn. Notable projects include an £800m investment from Beijing Construction and Engineering Group and the £1bn Far East Consortium investment into the Northern Gateway Project. Alongside the growth in direct investment, Manchester has seen a rapid rise in both Chinese tourist and student numbers since the Forum began. As the Manchester-China relationship continues to develop we are continuing to welcome a vast number of high level political visits, reaffirming senior level appetite in China to engage with Manchester. The Forum is directed by a board chaired by David Percival, Managing Director of Deloitte in Shanghai and Rhys Whalley its Executive Director. Other board members include Marketing Manchester, MIDAS, Growth Company, BT, Peel Group, MCFC, and BCEG. The Forum also works with other partners in GM and the Universities to strengthen GM's connectivity with China. How to get involved: Engaging with the Manchester China Forum is free. Email or follow us to find out more: enquiries@manchesterchinaforum.com Twitter: @Manchester_China_Forum WeChat: InvestManchester