Other than size considerations, there are differences between the trade profiles of the two countries that make them complementary. China produces and exports more or less everything, whereas Greece concentrates nowadays on selling services.
The most notable Greek exports at the moment are shipping services and tourism. China has shown interest for both, in addition to its declared commitment to use Greek ports and infrastructure as a gate to Chinese exports to the EU.
The blossoming prospects of cooperation between the two have come at a time when Greece has to cope with new challenges regarding its state obligations within the new environment created after the recent dollar/euro battle. We are affected by this battle of giants at the moment but it is very optimistic that the difficulties will be overcome.
The recently announced news between COSCO and Piraeus Port will be of value for both sides and we are expecting to see more in the fields of logistics and ship repair. In fact, there is a wide area for cooperation taking into account of the chartering requirements of China and the size of the Greek commercial fleet.
On the touristic side there is a really big opportunity as Greece, like China, has a long tradition in culture, arts and philosophy. The two people are appreciative of each other’s culture and very keen to learn about the other side, compare and become accustomed. Both sides have to gain from such exchanges as the world becomes smaller and smaller.
This matter is already attracting the attention of the Greek government and the culture can function as a firm basis for creating new business opportunities.
Recent developments in international trade call for imagination and outwardness. Those that make the best moves, are the ones who will get the biggest benefits. Greece, is looking out today on ways to provide access to the Balkans and the ex Soviet countries around the Black Sea. We are here to help reach these growing markets, not only via the sea, but also deep inside these regions, via rivers and canals.
Last but certainly not least, we feel that China and in particular Shanghai has the potential to become a most vibrant international and financial shipping center with special focus in Asia. OceanFinance as part of the Piraeus cluster have the will to share our know-how in shipping operations, financial activities, investment in the stock exchange and derivatives trading and develop a synergy that will eventually benefit both communities.