A free trade audit to enable Bradford business to capitalise on new trading opportunities to China is being launched following its formal entry to the World Trade Organisation.

Speaking to local businesses at a seminar at the city's Hanover Hotel, Jo Lavan of ChinaVentures urged Bradford companies to capitalise on the new opportunities but also to look before they leap and to take advantage of the range of subsidised support services available in the district.

China is the world's fastest growing market with a massive population of 1.2 billion.

ChinaVentures runs a range of subsidised support activities including specialist help and advice, regular trade visits, a business club and a web site.

Commenting on the free China trade audit, Joanna Lavan, ChinaVentures project leader explained: "China offers huge market potential which Bradford businesses cannot afford to ignore. We're here to get objective advice and practical support to enable local companies to capitalise on these new opportunities in China."