The Harbin Business Exchange (HBE) is the exclusive official business commerce portal between the city of Harbin, People's Republic of China, and the United States. It is a unique organization designed to identify and advance business relations and promote business enterprises on both sides of the globe. Harbin is the capital of Heilongjiang Province, China's northeastern most province. It is located near the international markets of Japan and South Korea. It is the home of nine million people, hosts the internationally famous annual ice festival and the world-renowned Harbin Institute of Technology. With it's highly productive work force, vast natural resources and advanced technology, northeast China is quickly becoming a region of enormous economic potential. Many international businesses are exploring this region for a full range of commerce opportunities. Background Among the most effective and proven ways to build strong international economic and business ties is through establishment of foreign trade and economic development representation in the host country. It is for this reason the Harbin Foreign Investment Administration Bureau (HFIAB) with American businessman Larry Horist signed the HBE agreement in June 2002. HBE is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. For more information, call (312) 565-4499, email at cyrillim@thomasandjoyce.com or log in www.harbex.org