Chinese cos keen on Indian market

Agencies Posted: Jan 10, 2008 at 1505 hrs
New Delhi, January 10: Ahead of the visit of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Beijing, China has said its companies are keen to invest in India in a big way but sought "level playing field" and easing of restrictions to attract them.

As the two countries prepare to discuss ways to enhance trade and economic relations, Chinese Ambassador Zhang Yan said the companies from all sectors, particularly infrastructure, housing and tourism are interested in investing in India.

India, as one of the fastest growing market, presents great business potential for Chinese investors. We believe that with the help of the Indian government, Chinese businesses would have a more favourable investment environment and both sides could expect a broader economic prospects, said Zhang.

I think, if the Indian side can reduce some restrictions, it will help more Chinese companies and investors to come to India, he said in comments made just ahead of Singh's maiden visit to Beijing from Sunday.

He elaborated saying that Chinese companies wanted a level-playing field and national treatment to enable them to invest in India even as he expressed "understanding" for New Delhi's concerns over zooming trade imbalance which has touched US 9 billion.