THE Chinese Government has given the seal of approval to One NorthEast's Shanghai office.

The formal recognition of the regional development agency's base, in the heart of Shanghai's business district, will give One NorthEast valuable access to new Government contacts.

This will allow the agency to promote the region to Government officials, raising the profile of the North-East as a prime location for investment by Chinese companies.

One NorthEast is now looking for a second member of staff for the China office to cope with rising demand for its services.

The agency recognised the importance of having a permanent base in China given the rapid growth of its economy and the opportunities opening up through the World Trade Agreement.

The agency is the only RDA to have a full-time presence in China, and it also has offices in the US, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, and Brussels.

Tingmei Deng, the Shanghai office representative, said: "The official recognition of the Government provides us with more opportunities to access Chinese authorities and companies.

"Now we will be able to tell Chinese entrepreneurs 'We are representing the North-East region of England, we are here in China, we are here to help you and we take your business seriously'."

Kevin Aisbitt, One NorthEast's inward investment manager, said: "This official recognition gives us certain privileges, such as being invited to Government events, which allows us to present the North-East to decision makers."