Multiple trips to China might soon pay off for Chatham-Kent administration.
BlackburnNews.com has learned two separate Chinese companies have visited Chatham-Kent in the last week, with economic development officials hosting the groups in the hopes they'll establish offices and facilities in the area.
The first company was in Chatham for four days last week and have dealt with Chatham-Kent officials before. Administration has spoken with these particular investors during two trips to China, while company officials have visited CK three times in the past.
Economic Development Director Michael Burton believes the Chinese company is exclusively considering Chatham-Kent for expansion.
"As that company was leaving, [another] company came in from China on Friday," says Burton. "They are also looking at an investment. We toured a couple buildings they'd be purchasing."
Burton adds the meetings have been productive. The companies have been asking detailed questions about finances, including the price of acquiring certain raw materials.
"[They're asking] what the tax rate is, and how this location compares to other locations, primarily in the US. What advantages do we have in terms of government support and those types of things," says Burton.
Chatham-Kent officials are currently drawing up a "Memorandum of Investment" that both companies will sign.
Officials hope to schedule that signing to coincide with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's upcoming trip to China in September.
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