Chinese Business Delegation Explores Investment Opportunities in Cagayan
TUGUEGARAO: A delegation of Chinese businessmen recently completed a two-day exploration tour in Cagayan, expressing interest in the province’s economic and industrial development potential. The visit, highlighting various prospective investment zones, has opened doors for potential economic collaborations between the province and Chinese investors.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba stated that the delegation, led by Chinese investors Vivian Zhang, Chen Yan, and Xhen Zhen Cui, toured key economic areas and proposed development sites, including the site for a proposed international airport at the tri-boundaries of Tuao, Piat, and Solana towns, from December 19 to 20. Vivian Zhang noted that upon returning to China, they would endorse Cagayan’s economic zones for possible investments.
Provincial officials briefed the Chinese traders on Cagayan’s investment plan. The Cagayan International Gateway Project, which encompasses the long-term development plans such as the Cagayan International Airport, Cagayan Smart City, an International Seaport, a Heavy Industrial Park, and a Cagayan Railway, was presented to the investors.
Rolando Calabazaron, the Cagayan Provincial and Planning Development Officer, emphasized Tuao’s strategic importance due to its proximity to neighboring provinces like Apayao and Kalinga. He pointed out the vast land available in the area, ripe for investment opportunities.
The delegation also visited the Port of Aparri, where they were informed about its history and the plans for its proposed reopening. Aparri town administrator, lawyer Mary Jane Tadili, discussed the development plans for Aparri West and East, including the ongoing construction of a bridge and the preparedness of an industrial zone for investors.
In Enrile, Mayor Miguel Decena Jr. presented the town’s tourism development plan, which includes a view deck with a zipline in the “Tsukulate Hills” and a fishery in Carague Lake.
Vivian Zhang, who runs a silk cloth and courier business and is the president of a commerce chamber in Zhejiang, China, revealed that their group has around 100,000 members. Chen Yan’s family operates around 200 coffee and cake shops, in addition to owning a plane and car seat factory, indicating the diverse interests of the visiting delegation.
The visit marks a significant step in fostering economic ties between Cagayan and Chinese investors, potentially leading to substantial investments in the region’s infrastructure and development projects.