A brand new initiative to introduce Yorkshire businesses to the fast-growing Chinese market and its trading opportunities has an export professional at its helm. Joanna Lavan has moved from her role of International Business Development Manager for the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce to run the China project for UniVentures Limited.

Branded ChinaVentures, the initiative is benefiting from Joanna's extensive experience of providing a range of international business services. Ms Lavan has travelled widely in Central and Eastern Europe, leading trade missions and fact finding visits. A graduate and director of the Institute of Export and holding a Foreign Correspondents Diploma in three European languages, Joanna Lavan has been actively engaged in the pursuit of new overseas markets since 1991, on behalf of both private and public organisations. Joanna lives in Honley, Huddersfield and has two daughters. She enjoys keeping fit, travel and is currently learning Mandarin.

Commenting on her new appointment Joanna, observed: "China represents an exciting challenge, particularly Zhejiang Province and the city of Hangzhou which ChinaVentures is targeting. But I know that we in Yorkshire are up to that challenge which is why we are providing a range of workshops, seminars, language sessions and trade visits. "I and my colleagues are determined that local small to medium size businesses have the chance to gain a true picture of modern, industrialised China so that they can decide whether to take advantage of the world's fastest growing economy."

ENDS

*UniVentures International Ltd is a member of the Leeds Metropolitan University group of companies and undertakes a range of innovative business support programmes on behalf of the University. Note to editors: a seminar will launch the ChinaVentures initiative on Tuesday 21st March aboard 'The Inspiration' boat moored at the Royal Armouries, Leeds. Joanna Lavan will introduce speakers who specialise in trade links with the Hangzhou area and a local company already doing business in China. Further information from Joanna Lavan on 01924 891125 or Judith Barber or Andy Green of GREEN public relations on 01924 363222.