Chongqing- Two prominent advisors, Singapore's Wilmar International and United Kingdom-based AstraZeneca, are set to be involved at this year's Annual Meeting of the Chongqing Mayor's International Economic Advisory Council (CMIA), which is set to take place on September 22. 

Kuok Khoon Hong, Chairman and CEO of Wilmar International, and Wang Lei, Executive Vice-President, International, and China president of AstraZeneca, will represent their companies in the Annual Meeting.

A guest speaker addressed the CMIA during a past session. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce)

Upcoming ventures include a grain and oil wharf

According to the Business Times, Kuok has extensive experience in the agribusiness industry and has been involved in the grains, edible oils, and oilseeds businesses since 1973.

Established in 1991, Wilmar International, a forerunner in the Asian agricultural sector, has secured its position as one of the most valued companies on the Singapore Exchange. With a diversified business portfolio spanning from palm plantation and oilseed crushing to consumer products and biodiesel, the conglomerate has made its presence felt in the global marketplace.

In its past collaborations with Chongqing, Wilmar International introduced the renowned Golden Dragon Fish grain oil through its subsidiary, Yihai Kerry Arawana Holdings Co., Ltd. With seven enterprises already established in Chongqing, Wilmar International is poised to expand its footprints further in the region. 

The company recently expressed optimism about Chongqing's strategic location and favorable business environment. Their upcoming ventures in the city include a grain and oil wharf, an egg-laying chicken breeding project, and a rice processing initiative.

Introducing 15 new medicines in China 

Global pharmaceutical titan AstraZeneca has its global medical headquarters and R&D center in Shanghai. It has served nearly 80 global markets from its Wuxi, Taizhou, and Qingdao production bases. 

The company has a robust portfolio of almost 40 innovative drugs, including oncology, cardiovascular, metabolic, renal, respiratory, digestive, and rare diseases. AstraZeneca aims to introduce 15 new medicines in China within the next five years.

While the company has yet to venture into Chongqing, its induction as a consultant at the Annual Meeting indicates its growing interest in the region's potential. AstraZeneca's long-term vision might involve an intensified collaboration with Chongqing, leading to investments in the city. 

This year's Annual Meeting of the CMIA signifies Chongqing's continual draw as a global investment hub. The elite group, comprising 36 global corporate giants from over ten countries and regions, will offer expertise and insights across multiple industries, including intelligent manufacturing, electronic information, energy and chemicals, finance, and more.