Twixt towers of Shenzhen, Edinburgh castle
You thought a kilted businessman in Scotland and a suave entrepreneur in China have nothing in common? Think again
"The friendly exchanges have given me the chance to build networks and explore opportunities. This is fundamentally important. When you're a small-business owner and you want to expand, you really need to find people who understand what you're trying to do."
McAreavey of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce says: "It is overwhelming to even think about where you should start if you want to trade with China. Picking a city is strategically important. Shenzhen is a great location when you think of the Pearl River Delta and its closeness to Hong Kong. Also, why go and start somewhere else when you have that solid platform, that strong friendship?"
The relationship between the two cities over 10 years has spawned interest in various industries in reaping its benefits.
Scottish spirits are a staple of trade between China and Scotland, and Iain Stirling, co-owner of Arbikie Highland Estate, a family-owned distillery, says Shenzhen acts as its gateway as it exports its gin, vodka and whiskey to China.
Big names in Shenzhen such as Huawei and BYD are working with Scottish companies to facilitate knowledge-sharing in artificial intelligence and green transition.
Hamish Allison, chief executive and creative director of Freakworks, says he is happy to know that "I am not the only person in Edinburgh who understands Shenzhen".
Since 2012, the production company has made a series of 10 commercials for Ganten, a premium bottled water brand whose headquarters are in Shenzhen, and from then Allison was keen on opening an office in Shenzhen, which he considers "the best city in China".
