Source: CCTV.com

07-02-2007 16:13

Special Report:   HK 10 Years

Ten years after Hong Kong's return to China, business, stocks and confidence are up. With concerted efforts made by the government of the Hong Kong SAR and members from all corners of society, the region has overcome a range of challenges and has made remarkable progress. Zhou Jingtai, a thirty-six-year-old Hong Kong businessman, is one of the beneficiaries of the return.

Zhou Jingtai opened a Korean restaurant in one of the oldest and the best preserved "Hutongs" in Beijing. He came to Beijing two years ago. By chance, he was brought here to NanLuoGuXiang by a friend. He was attracted by the unique cultural atmosphere of the oldest "Hutong". He liked it so much, he decided to set up his business right here.

Zhou Jingtai, owner of Saveurs De Coree said:"I saw that Hutong view is absolutely fantastic, got very strong Chinese character, is rather unique. When I started to look for a location for the restaurant, I came back here. We are lucky to find this spot here."

It's the first time Zhou has ever run a restaurant. For him, it's a very interesting and exciting venture. After a year of operation, his business is on the right track. Zhou said as soon as business is steady, he would like to open another restaurant in Beijing.

Zhou Jingtai said:"I would like to open another restaurant in Beijing, probably with the same style, probably not necessary Korean cuisine, but with the same concept. Recently, we have won a magazine award, that is very encouraging for us indeed. "

After Hong Kong's return, many investors have come to the Chinese mainland. Nowadays, it is quite easy for Hong Kong people to open their own business here. In comparison with even five years ago, when it was not possible to start an individually owned business unit, known as "Getihu" in Chinese.

Zhou Jingtai said: "Thanks to the CEPA agreements, they gave us lot of liberty to do business here, and now I can open a private restaurant totally individually by myself, not needing another, for example a Chinese partner."

The implementation of CEPA not only brings closer the economic and trade partnership of the Mainland and Hong Kong, but also attracts capital and an inflow of talent.