120-strong delegation seeks new trade links in Guangzhou

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is stepping up its international trade efforts, with a high-powered 120-member business delegation set to travel to Guangzhou next week to unlock fresh market opportunities and strengthen economic ties with China.

The four-day visit, running from November 11 to 14, brings together key industry leaders, government officials and business representatives from across the state.

Organised by the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah, the mission will be jointly led by State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar and MCCC Sabah president Datuk Dexter Lau.

MCCC Sabah vice-president and organising committee chairman Louis Su said the strong turnout underscores growing confidence and interest among Sabah’s business community in expanding into one of the world’s largest markets.

“The broad participation across multiple sectors reflects a shared commitment from both the public and private sectors to deepen bilateral trade and economic cooperation,” Louis said.

The delegation will gain first-hand insights into China’s latest industrial developments through site visits and direct discussions with government agencies, business chambers and enterprises.

Two major events have been scheduled for November 13 — the China-Malaysia Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange and a networking dinner — expected to attract around 200 Chinese participants. Together, more than 300 delegates from both countries will take part.

Louis emphasised that the visit aims to go beyond networking to build genuine partnerships that deliver real results.

“This platform will allow businesses to connect, exchange market knowledge and identify areas for collaboration. We hope this mission will generate tangible commercial opportunities and give fresh momentum to Sabah-China economic relations,” he added.

He urged all 120 delegates to make the most of the visit, develop lasting connections and help position Sabah as a competitive trade and investment partner.