OVERSEAS TRADE OFFICES (Functions)

Mr Yeo Toon Chia asked the Minister for Trade and Industry and Minister for Health (a) how many new overseas trade offices will be established in financial year 1981-82 and in which countries; and (b) whether it is possible for our local industrialists or traders to get assistance from these overseas trade offices, and, if so, how.

Mr Goh Chok Tong: Mr Speaker, Sir, there are plans to set up three overseas trade offices in Belgium, Saudi Arabia and the People's Republic of China in financial year 1981-82.

Our local industrialists or traders can get assistance from these overseas trade offices, whose function is to promote our exports in overseas markets. Our overseas offices will, therefore, service trade enquiries, seek out foreign buyers and provide logistics support for overseas promotional projects such as organisation of trade fairs and trade missions. Actual follow-up of contacts established and business enquiries received will, however, have to be undertaken by the industrialists and traders themselves.