A group of about 10 local PR professionals under the umbrella of the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) were in Beijing for the China International Public Relations Congress 2006. This is IPRS’ second business visit to China following a 2004 visit to Shanghai.
With Beijing and Shanghai set to host the Summer Olympics in 2008 and World Expo in 2010 respectively, there is no better time for PR practitioners to familiarise themselves with China’s business environment.
The IPRS-led delegation comprises practitioners from organizations like W.R. Grace, Singapore Exchange, Singapore Management University and Ministry of Information, Communications and The Arts.
The China International PR Congress was organised by the China International Public Relations Association (CIPRA), the theme for this year’s conference was ‘Breakthrough and Innovation.’ Discussion topics focused on developments and trends in the global PR industry with briefings on the opportunities and challenges of the PR landscape in China.
Conference speakers included Mr. Wang Guoqing, Deputy Director of News Office of the State Council; Mr. Grapp Robert, President of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA); Mr. Li Dongsheng, President of TCL Group and Mr. Ray Kotcher, CEO of Ketchum Newscan.
Ms K Bhavani (left), President of IPRS, spoke on the PR industry in Singapore and accreditation of PR industry professionals.
Commenting on PR growth in China, Ms K Bhavani said, "There is a lot happening there and we felt that this is the opportune time and the best possible way to expose interested practitioners from Singapore to the business environment in China.
The demand for PR services has increased exponentially in China. Major events to be held in 2008 (Olympics) and 2010 (Shanghai World Expo), add further to this demand. "
"Singapore’s PR industry, which has matured over the last 35 years, could contribute to the development of PR practice in China, through working there or through collaborations. There is a demand for experienced PR professionals in China – and we believe we have a good talent pool in Singapore."
