We all know relationships are important for doing business in China but how do we build fruitful relationships in this still unfamiliar market? This interactive workshop will address this question by combining first-hand knowledge of a seasoned operator in China with tools developed by the University of Auckland Business School resulting from extensive research into NZ businesses' engagement with Asian markets. The workshop is aimed at SMEs intending to increase their commitment to China and will equip participants with practical tools to successfully navigate the challenge of forming partnerships and developing distribution arrangements in this challenging market.

Join us for a stimulating, interactive workshop with Dr Ben Fath of the University of Auckland Business School and independent consultant Paul O'Brien, former advisor to Douglas Pharmaceuticals and CEO of EasiYo. Paul has an MBA from the University of Auckland and two decades of experience selling to China. Companies he has led have received three export awards and he has been a judge of the NZ Export Awards for the last 5 years.

In addition to partnership formation in the context of distributor engagement, the workshop will also include a session on cross-border e-commerce (CBEC). Paul O'Brien will conduct a needs assessment of participants and a group work session on e-commerce in the China-market.

In advance of the workshop two short articles from the Harvard Business Review will be provided in to help participants prepare to engage with the subject material. The workshop will conclude with networking and refreshments.

• ExportNZ website - find out more and reserve tickets