Azets is hosting the event at its Glasgow office and has invited a Shanghai-based expert to lead discussions.

Rita Boyle, a director of corporate advisor SBA Stone Forest – like Azets, a member of the Allinial Global accounting industry association – will share her insight on the main opportunities and challenges faced by UK companies operating in or exporting to China or Hong Kong.

Ms Boyle was invited to lead the event by members of Azets’ tax department who want to help business leaders here gain a practical understanding of what it takes to succeed in these complex markets.

Dave Taylor, Azets tax director, said: “China and Hong Kong continue to present significant commercial opportunities for UK businesses, particularly in premium goods, financial services and advanced manufacturing. But these opportunities come with a high degree of complexity.

“Understanding local regulations, navigating tax implications and avoiding common operational pitfalls is critical. Businesses that underestimate these factors can face costly setbacks.

“This session is about equipping organisations with the insight they need to enter these markets with confidence and clarity.”

Ms Boyle will draw on her extensive experience advising international firms on market entry and cross-border operations in China.

She will outline key considerations including regulatory compliance, tax structures, operational risk and the importance of local partnerships.

The timing of the Glasgow event reflects renewed interest in UK-China trade, following recent moves to ease export conditions for certain sectors.

In particular, the reduction in whisky export tariffs from 10% to 5% announced after the Prime Minister’s January 2026 visit to China signals fresh opportunities for Scottish distilleries and distributors looking to expand their footprint in the Chinese market.

According to the UK government, the deal with China is expected to be worth £250 million to the UK’s drinks sector over the next five years.

Mr Taylor added: “While such developments are encouraging, they do not remove the need for careful planning especially with geopolitical dynamics, regulatory frameworks and cultural nuances continuing to evolve.”

The event is aimed at UK businesses already operating in China or Hong Kong as well as those considering expansion or export opportunities in the near future.

Doing Business in the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) takes place at Azets, Titanium 1, King’s Inch Place, Renfrew, PA4 8WF on Friday 17 April 2026 from 9am to 10am. For more information and to book, email nicole.wembridge@azets.co.uk.