Food and drink companies are invited to an informal briefing ahead of the Chinese Burns Supper on 1st February with an opportunity to meet two China buyers representing Samarkand Global and Kaola.com.

China offers vast opportunities in the food and beverage industry but brands entering the market need to be sensitive to social and cultural factors shaping consumption trends and conscious of potential challenges. The most important of these relate to the complicated regulatory framework and the fast evolving online retail infrastructure. Market research suggests that over 80 percent of consumers from upper tier cities prefer to buy foods and drinks online. The cross-border e-commerce opportunity where Chinese consumers buy food and drink products direct from foreign companies via authorised e-commerce platforms presents a relatively low cost and low risk launchpad for brands to enter the market and establish initial presence.

The Glasgow China food and drink briefing will provide a concise update on the latest consumer trends and amendments to the exporting requirements as well as the opportunity to meet two cross-border e-commerce buyers – Samarkand Global Ltd - looking for innovative snacks and natural foods, and Kaola.com - interested in Scotch Whisky brands.

Following the afternoon briefing, companies joining the Chinese Burns Supper and the China-Scotland Business Awards extravaganza in the evening will be able to continue networking with the buyers at the dinner. 

Agenda:
1.30 pm – Arrival and refreshments
2.00 pm – Welcome and introductions
2.10 pm – China food and drink - Consumer and regulatory update
2.20 pm – Meet the buyer – Samarkand Global
2.30 pm – Meet the buyer - Kaola.com (TBC)
2.45 pm – Networking and 1-2-1 interactions 
4.00 pm – End

Event Venue:
RSM UK Tax and Accounting Limited
Third Floor, Centenary House
69 Wellington Street
Glasgow
G2 6HG