The Growth Company supports Greater Manchester trade mission to China
- Monday, November 9, 2026
- Posted By The Growth Company
Eleven Greater Manchester businesses explored new international opportunities as part of GM Business Growth Hub’s first standalone trade mission to Mainland China and Hong Kong.
GM Business Growth Hub, part of the Growth Company, led the delegation in partnership with London & Partners from 2 to 5 November 2026, helping businesses explore the Chinese market and build new international connections.
Through company visits, business meetings, industry tours and networking, delegates gained first-hand insight into the market and connected with potential customers, suppliers, distributors and strategic partners.
Building on the longstanding relationship between Greater Manchester and China, the trade mission formed part of our wider work to help businesses access new markets and realise their international growth ambitions.
Delivered in partnership with London & Partners, it combined Greater Manchester’s strengths with the organisation’s networks across Greater China, giving businesses first-hand insight into the market and opportunities to build new connections.
In Hong Kong, the delegation visited Hong Kong Science & Technology Park and Cyberport and met organisations including the Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund, before travelling to Shenzhen for visits to the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone, Zhonglian Zhigu and BYD.
These visits provided insight into areas including technology, hardware development, manufacturing and new energy vehicles, alongside opportunities to meet Chinese companies, investors and industry partners.
The 11 businesses that took part in the mission were:
Through the mission, GM Business Growth Hub and London & Partners sought to help participating businesses establish commercial connections, develop lasting partnerships and lay the foundations for future international growth.
Janine Smith, Executive Director of GM Business Growth Hub, said:
“This mission builds on the strong foundation that already exists between Greater Manchester and China. Together we look forward to developing more relationships and opening up more opportunities for everyone. Greater Manchester businesses are ambitious and ready to be ambassadors for our city-region.”