International PR firm Porter Novelli enters China market

Porter Novelli, an international public relations and communication firm, has set up its first Chinese branch in Beijing to meet the growing demand from Chinese small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) that are eyeing international market, said the CEO on Thursday.

The company, which is part of Omnicom Group, officially launched its service platform, named China Desk global network on its 45th anniversary.

Brad MacAfee, CEO of Porter Novelli, said on the launch ceremony that China is a vital part of the world economy and has invested a lot in overseas markets, helping to upgrade local industry and create a lot of jobs in the world.

The service will cover the market in North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and South America. It aims to provide a gateway for China and international business to expand their global ambition.

MacAfee added that the China Desk's mission is to bring Chinese companies and enterprises, especially SMEs to the world and help them stand firmly in the international market.

Shen Guofang, former spokesman of Foreign Ministry, said he hoped the China Desk by Porter Novelli would provide a one-stop service for Chinese companies.

"We are glad to see Porter Novelli has set up its global network in China," said Shen. "Under the Belt and Road Initiative, the firm will help Chinese companies better discover future investment opportunity in the oversea market."