Two meetings which aim to help Midland firms unlock the potential of the Chinese market are due to be held in March.

The Birmingham Post has combined with Mazars, lobby group Birmingham Forward and Aston Business School to provide a route map to help firms get connected and begin trading with China.

Thierry Labarre, a partner at Mazars, said: "Business is abuzz with the threats and opportunities presented by China. Many have been trading with China for years, others have just started. But the majority are still daunted by the plethora of issues and uncertainties which China conjures up in their minds.

"Whether you want to source from China, export there, or even set up an operation from scratch, our breakfast seminar will aim to provide some answers."

Mr Labarre, who runs Mazars' China operations of five offices with 500 employees, will be the principal speaker at the event, which takes place at Aston Business School, on March 9.

He has lived and worked in China for 20 years and will talk on the key issues in setting up or investing in China, tell you how to identify suppliers and make contacts, and provide the dos and don'ts of Chinese business and social etiquette.

He will be supported by tax expert Terri Bruce, who will advise on transfer pricing, the China-UK double tax treaty and the hidden financing and duty costs of outsourcing manufacturing to a low-cost economy. See here for details.

A few days later Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce will host a China trade event in the city.

UK Trade and Investments Greater China Roadshow will be held in association with the China Britain Business Council and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council on the morning of March 13.

Mark Eaton, director of the China Trade Liaison Office at UKTI, said: "Since its economic reform in the late 1970s, China's growth has been phenomenal.

"It is now the sixth largest economy in the world and the world's leading recipient of foreign direct investment, having overtaken the US and the UK in the past year. Annual growth rates average nine per cent.

"What are the opportunities for British businesses? How is it compared to other export markets in terms of business environment, government regulation and culture?"

Mr Eaton added: "This event will be of particular interest to companies wishing to enter this key market not only for direct export but also to explore strategic sourcing and joint venture opportunities, not only in mainland China but also in Hong Kong and Macau."

Participation is free, however places are limited. Send an email to info@cw-chamber.co.uk for details.