BT opens Innovation Centre in China

The latest technology will be available to support emerging companies in the region

BT has opened a new Customer Innovation Showcase Centre in Beijing, with the aim of supporting businesses in exploring commercial opportunities across Asia.

The company said the new facility will bring the latest videoconferencing equipment and networked IT applications together in one place.

Vince Cable, UK Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, opened the centre, saying it will play an important role in boosting trade between the UK and China.

"I am delighted to see so many companies capitalising on the opportunities offered by China's development, and I hope this centre will serve to open doors for more UK firms," said Cable.

"The centre will help UK and multinational companies pursue business opportunities across Asia, and I hope it will be a beacon of successful cutting-edge technology," he added.

Since entering the Chinese market in 1995, BT has invested in a technology and service centre in Dailan, a research and development centre in Beijing, and a procurement and delivery centre in Shanghai.

"This new centre will open up a whole new stream of business opportunities," said Wen Xiao, general manager, business operations, BT China.

"China views Vince Cable's visit as evidence of the UK's dedication to the Chinese market, and this centre will provide support for emerging companies in the region," he added.