Press Release: Enterprise Europe Networks opens SME gateways to China and South Korea

The Enterprise Europe Network has opened 15 contact points in China and South Korea, giving European SMEs easier access to these attractive markets. This was announced at the third annual conference of the European Enterprise Network in Antwerp. European Commission Vice President Antonio Tajani underlined that competition from companies outside the EU has become more intense as a result of the financial crisis. SMEs need open markets and fair competition in order to be competitive.

25% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the EU export or have exported at some point during the last 3 years, a share which is expected to increase considerably. To support SMEs ready to do business abroad, the Network extends its reach to Asia, with additional contact points in China and more planned in Japan. With 589 partner organisations covering 47 countries including all 27 EU Member States, the Network acts as an innovative and unique channel to help SMEs to succeed.