The mayor of Humboldt believes his trip to China on behalf of the city will bear fruit.
Rob Muench visited Hangzhou, a city of 9.5 million two hours southwest of Shanghai.
“It was well worth it and I think we’re going to see some activity from it,” he said.
The mayor said while he was there, he detected a lot of interest in investing in Saskatchewan. There’s been lots of interest from Chinese investors in Vancouver and Toronto in the past, but those places have become quite expensive.
“They’re looking for more affordable options and Saskatchewan is on the radar.”
While he was there, Muench toured three labs belonging to an environmental testing company that tests air, water and food. He understands that there could be interest in locating a testing facility in Saskatchewan.
The mayor also talked to an investment company that focuses on imports and exports, as well as human resources. The company does a lot of work in the agriculture industry and the mayor was told they’re looking at this area.
Muench also talked to one of the largest tourism companies in the city. They do a lot of tours to British Columbia but want to expand to other markets. Saskatchewan has something that’s desired by people that live in the most populated country in the world.
“The people in China want to go somewhere where it’s a wide open space because it’s something they don’t have there,” he said.
The City of Hangzhou has a city department devoted to international relations.
“Their sole purpose is to build relationships with other countries and other cities around the world,” Muench said.
While he was there, Muench tentatively signed a letter of intent towards creating a link between Hangzhou and Humboldt. It will have to be approved by council before it comes into effect. Muench said he understands the cost of the agreement will be borne on Hangzhou’s end. City staff are looking at the ramification of the letter before it goes to council.
Council budgeted $5,000 for the trip. Muench said it’s looking like the bill will be around $2,500.
For Muench, the next step is to work with the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce to assess where there are gaps are in the city that investors could help fill. The mayor said Humboldt’s central location and nearby industry should make the city desirable to invest in.
