Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE -- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is leading its first international business development opportunity with a trip to China next month.

After a series of visits to the world's economic powerhouse of the East and two Chinese company expansions into Gwinnett totaling more than 50 new jobs and more than $5 million in capital investment, the Gwinnett Chamber is offering its own businesses the opportunity to seek expansion and build relationships with global partners.

"We want to make connections overseas and (use) a lot of connections we already have ... so Gwinnett companies can do business easier and quickly with China," said Nick Masino, the vice president of economic development for the Gwinnett Chamber.

About 12 people have signed on for the 2010 Gwinnett Global Business Mission to China. But Masino said the trip isn't for everyone.

Masino said business leaders interested in attending the mission should contact him or Lisa Sherman at 678-334-1513 at the Gwinnett Chamber to discuss their objectives.

"We're looking for people focused on doing business with China or making connections with companies to do business with them when (the Chinese companies) expand to the U.S.," Masino said.

The trip, lasting 10 days from departure to return, will encompass business networking opportunities overseas with meetings and business trade talks in some of China's most economically renowned cities.

The mission is scheduled from July 5 to 15. Prices, which include hotel and airfare, range from $6,395 to $10,045.

For more information, including an agenda, visit www.gwinnettglobal.com.