UK-based small businesses trading in Hong Kong or China are being invited to enter the second Cathay Pacific Awards, which recognise and reward UK business dynamism and success in Hong Kong and China.

• The Pacific Star Award will be awarded to the UK-based company that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to business in China and/or Hong Kong.
• The Business Wings Award will recognise innovation, creativity and dynamism demonstrated by a UK-based company in developing its business successfully in Hong Kong and/or China.
• The Enterprise Award will recognise an SME which has achieved outstanding success, measured by financial results, company growth or improved market share.

‘Currently, China’s infrastructure is undergoing an unprecedented change, releasing greater opportunities within a wider range of industries such as medical, water and transportation that have previously remained closed to non-Chinese companies,’ explains Philippe de Gentile-Williams, General Manager Europe, Cathay Pacific Airways, London. ‘UK businesses are perfectly placed to capitalise on this as they have the technology and knowledge which Chinese companies are looking to use. Through the awards we hope to facilitate the sharing of expertise which will help UK-based companies take advantage of the opportunities in Hong Kong and China.’

As part of their prize, two employees from each winning company will be invited on a one-week trip to Hong Kong and China in early 2007. The trip will include a private business masterclass at the Centre for Overseas Academic and Cultural Exchanges at the renowned Tsinghua University in Beijing.

Entry to The Cathay Pacific Awards is via the Cathay Pacific Awards website at www.cathaypacificawards.co.uk and is open to UK registered companies that employ staff in either the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and/or the People’s Republic of China. The judging panel will be looking for companies that demonstrate both positive financial results and a long-term investment commitment to the region. The closing date for entries is 31 October 2006 and winners will be announced in November 2006.