Zhejiang–New Jersey Sister-State Partnership
Celebrates 45 Years with Joint NJCACC–WKU Seminar
What Chinese Businesses and Their Lawyers Need to Know about Doing Business in New Jersey
In celebration of the 45th Anniversary of the Zhejiang Province–New Jersey Sister-State Relationship, the New Jersey Chinese-American Chamber of Commerce (NJCACC) was pleased to co-host an online seminar with the Wenzhou-Kean University (WKU) Law and Business Center.
The program brought together business leaders, academic institutions, and professional experts from both New Jersey and Zhejiang to reflect on how a relationship that began as a diplomatic exchange has developed into sustained cooperation in education, trade, and cross-border engagement.
As NJCACC continues its mission of supporting business growth and strengthening international partnerships, the seminar highlighted the Chamber’s ongoing role in connecting companies and professionals seeking opportunities in New Jersey and the broader U.S. market.
Practical Insights on Doing Business in New Jersey
The seminar focused on the real-world considerations businesses face when expanding internationally, including market entry planning, operational strategy, and cross-border collaboration. Speakers emphasized the importance of strong institutional networks, local partnerships, and practical knowledge in building long-term success.
Ms. Betty Xiong, representing the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Zhejiang Provincial Committee, shared insights on Zhejiang’s evolving global strategy—from traditional export models toward integrated approaches involving overseas investment, supply chain development, and research collaboration. Her remarks underscored the value of coordinated support in helping enterprises navigate complex international markets.
Ms. Yin Long, Chairwoman of NJCACC, highlighted New Jersey’s strengths as a highly diverse and business-friendly environment. Positioned between the major economic centers of New York and Philadelphia, New Jersey offers direct access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets, supported by a concentration of universities, skilled professionals, and internationally diverse communities. She noted that successful market entry depends not only on geography and logistics, but also on cultural participation, trusted partnerships, and a clear understanding of regulatory and tax systems.
Mr. Zhenggui “Kevin” Li, Esq., a corporate and M&A attorney, addressed key structural and strategic considerations for companies entering the U.S. market. He emphasized New Jersey’s strong infrastructure, proximity to major East Coast markets, and established life sciences and technology sectors as major advantages for international businesses seeking a long-term presence in the United States.
A Relationship Grounded in Innovation and Exchange
Over four and a half decades, Zhejiang and New Jersey have built globally recognized economies shaped by entrepreneurship and innovation. Zhejiang is home to internationally known companies such as Alibaba and Geely, while New Jersey hosts global leaders including Johnson & Johnson, Merck, Verizon, and Prudential.
The partnership is also reflected in the movement of goods and ideas through major gateways such as the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan and the Port of New York and New Jersey, which connect manufacturing centers and consumer markets across the Pacific.
Student Perspectives and the Next Generation
WKU MBA students added a personal dimension to the discussion, sharing reflections from their recent visit to New Jersey. Students noted similarities between Zhejiang and New Jersey in their pragmatic business cultures, while also highlighting the importance of understanding local processes, professional norms, and compliance expectations when operating internationally.
Looking Ahead
Forty-five years after the establishment of the sister-state relationship, Zhejiang and New Jersey’s connection continues to be strengthened through education, professional exchange, and practical collaboration. NJCACC is proud to partner with institutions like WKU to support dialogue and engagement that create opportunity for businesses and communities on both sides.
As global economic ties continue to evolve, the Zhejiang–New Jersey partnership remains a powerful example of how regional cooperation can generate lasting value for the next generation of entrepreneurs and professionals.