"I first became interested in expanding into China in 2002, but I made a few blues because doing business here is different from Australia,’’ Mr Michie told the Advertiser while on the trip.

While Mr Michie, with the help of his Chinese business partner Lily Wang, managed to set up the Guangzhou office, the real opportunity to do business came out of the trade mission.

``The government to government aspect of this mission has made all the difference, as the Chinese appreciate it if you have the respect of your government,’’ Mr Michie said.

``The fact that you have met the local party secretary and we are here at the invitation of the Chinese government carries a lot of weight.’‘

The most tangible response for Mr Michie was in Yiwu, south of Shanghai, home of the world’s largest small commodities market.

``I spoke to the manager of the commodities market who said that I could have a booth in their planned customer services centre. That would not have happened so easily if I had not come on this trade mission with Parramatta Council.’‘

Other trade delegates also reported success with setting up promising contacts with Chinese businesses.

Organised by Parramatta Council and the Asia Business Connection, the trade mission of September 6-12, visited the World Expo in Shanghai, the commodities market in Yiwu where Lord Mayor Paul

Garrard signed a memorandum of understanding with the local mayor and attended Beijing’s inaugural International Brands Festival.

Western Sydney businesses which attended were Moore Stephens, ANZ Bank, Zhinar Architects, Toland Architects, Pivotel HR, Grima Recycling, Taurus Trade Finance and Etienne Lawyers.