Two service groups, aimed at upgrading Taiwan-funded firms on the Chinese mainland, have been established simultaneously in Guangdong and Fujian. It's part of decisions made by mainland authorities concerned to help Taiwan tackle financial difficulties.

Two service groups, aimed at upgrading Taiwan-funded firms on the Chinese mainland, have been established simultaneously in Guangdong and Fujian.

At the launch ceremony in Guangdong, officials with the Taiwan Affairs Office said the service group will provide tutorial services to Taiwan-funded firms in the mainland. This will include policy guidance, business consultation, and technology innovation. At the ceremony in Fujian, attendees discussed upgrading Taiwan-funded firms and what they can do to tackle the current financial crisis.

Wu Guosheng, Official of Fujian Taiwan Affairs Office said "We'll provide comprehensive services to Taiwan business owners, covering management, technology and talent, to help them get through the difficulties."

Huang Guangheng, Taiwan Investor said "This really gives us a lot of help. The local government is offering support to us Taiwan investors to help us make upgrades."

The Taiwan-funded firms have different requirements and features, as they are located in different provinces on the mainland. To meet their demands, the Guangdong service group plans to hold four meetings for the firms in 2009, focusing on policy reading and explanation, and technology resource introduction. The Fujian group will send experts to areas popular with Taiwan firms, including Fuzhou, Quanzhou, and Xiamen.

(CCTV December 26, 2008)