CBBC is delighted to invite members to a briefing with HM Trade Commissioner for China, John Edwards on Wednesday, 29th September.

John is one of nine Trade Commissioners appointed by the British government to promote the UK globally. As the head of the Department for International Trade in China, John is in charge of all bilateral trade issues and works closely with Her Majesty’s Ambassador in Beijing to promote UK trade and prosperity.

During this session, John will provide updates on the priority works on DIT’s agenda throughout the year, the bilateral trade and investment cooperation highlights followed by a roundtable discussion with members on the line.

If you have any questions to John, you’re welcome to provide it to us prior to the webinar (email Serena at serena.li@cbbc.org) or raise during the webinar.

This session will be held via Zoom. Therefore, we invite you to have your cameras open and participate directly in the live discussion and Q&A. You will be able to use the ‘raise hand’ function if you would like to speak or you will also be able to type your questions or comments into the Chat box. 

Agenda

• 08.00 BST/15.00 CST  Welcome Remarks, Sir Sherard Cowper, Chair, CBBC
• 08.05 BST /15.05 CST  Introductory Remarks, HMTC John Edwards
• 08.20 BST /15.20 CST  Discussion/Q&A , chaired by Andrew Seaton, Chief Executive, CBBC
• 08.55 BST /15.55 CST  Closing Remarks

JOHN EDWARDS

Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for China (HMTC)

John has 25 years of experience working for the UK government, with more than half of that time spent in China including as HM Consul General in Shanghai (2015-19) and Minister Counsellor at the British Embassy (2012-15).

In his previous roles in China, John has led teams across China dealing with science and innovation, energy, climate change and health policy. As Consul General in Shanghai he was responsible for the trade and investment relationship across East China. In his most recent role as Deputy Trade Commissioner he was responsible for the advanced manufacturing, Tech, education, life sciences and healthcare sectors.

Outside of China, John was the speechwriter for three Foreign Secretaries and was the Deputy Consul General in Jerusalem. John graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Ancient and Modern History.