Companies combine forces in China

Exporters are joining forces to set up headquarters in Shanghai giving them access to in-market services across greater China.

The newly-formed Primary Collaboration New Zealand is a partnership between six primary sector firms, including Silver Fern Farms, Sealord and horticulture group Pacific Pace.

It's in the process of establishing a business in China called ServeCo, which will provide centrally located officers in Shanghai, adminstration and support staff, and a showroom for New Zealand products.

Primary Collaboration chairman is Andy Borland, the managing director of Scales Corporation which owns the Mr Apple business.

Mr Borland said exporters increasingly need locally-based liason with importers, wholesalers and customers but have difficulty finding spare cash for such a venture.