Michigan governor: US-China ties can be expanded

Despite policy changes and rhetoric from the Trump administration on immigration and trade, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder said there is still an opportunity to build upon the established bond between China and the US.

"We need to wait and see what happens with the administration," Snyder, a Republican, said in an interview on Feb 11 at the Chinese New Year Gala hosted by the Detroit Chinese Business Association (DCBA) in Detroit. "I appreciate they have new ideas, but let's build on what we have done over the last few years."

Snyder, who has conducted several trade missions to China during his administration, noted that more than 11,000 Chinese students are studying in Michigan and several Michigan-based companies, including Amway, Kellogg, General Motors and Ford Motor Co, have large investments in China.

"It's not a one-way street and now we are seeing strong investment from the Chinese back here. Let's keep building on those ties," he added.

Jerry Xu, president of the DCBA, echoed the governor's comments and told those attending his organization's event that "this celebration serves as the foundation for the growing economic ties between China and the US."

Snyder said the Chinese are active investors in Detroit and that they will find ample opportunity to invest in Detroit's comeback.

Snyder also said that he thinks Michigan can develop a niche market to lure Chinese tourists to the state. He said many Chinese will want to visit New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas on their first trips to the US. "But many are starting to come back a second and third time. It's on those trips that I think they will want a more natural and outdoor experience and Michigan offers the best outdoor experience. It's why I introduced the Pure Michigan (tourism campaign) in China in the last couple of years," he said

Johan de Nysschen, president of GM's luxury car division Cadillac, also addressed the audience.

"China is an important market for Cadillac and it is the fastest growing luxury brand in China," de Nysschen said. "Cadillac can play an important role in fostering closer economic ties between China and the US. We can contribute to growth and job creation in both countries."

Last week Cadillac announced that it sold more cars in China in the first month of 2017 than it did in the US. In 2016, Cadillac sold 170,000 vehicles in the US and 116,000 in China, and de Nysschen said Cadillac will try to achieve sales of 150,000 vehicles in China in 2017.