Perspectives of Hawai‘i Business who Found Success in China

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April 8, 2021
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Zoom Webinar, Registration Required

Perspectives of Hawai‘i Business who Found Success in China

In this last session of the webinar series, we will invite Hawai‘i business owners that have been successful in doing business with China. They will share their experiences and offer suggestions on how to approach and manage your activities in China. Hearing their stories will offer valuable guidance as you plan and prepare your business to enter the China market. Register here.

 

Speakers:

Robert Zheng,

Robert Zheng, Executive Vice President, Senior Director of Development, Asia Pacific

Chao “Robert” Zheng, WATG’s Senior Director of Development, came to the Honolulu office with a unique understanding of the business culture in the Asia market. He has directly impacted WATG’s expanding portfolio in the Pacific Asia region and has contributed to the successful growth in the Singapore office.

Robert has been instrumental in creating and implementing strategies for developing business opportunities in the Greater China market and continues to act as an advisor to new and returning clients. Robert joined WATG in 1996 and was responsible for tracking travel and tourism trends world-wide. He also analyzed research data to support WATG’s strategic direction. In 2007, he transitioned to WATG’s Singapore location to assist with setting up their expanding office. In 2012, Robert returned to Honolulu to focus on the rising Hawaii and South Pacific market while continuing to focus on Asia.

Robert is the past president of the Hawaii Mainland China Overseas Association (HMCOA). When under his previous leadership, HMCOA membership more than tripled. He has been a guest speaker at tourism conferences throughout Asia and has led seminars and university classes in Hawaii on topics related to China. Robert continues to participate in travel and hospitality conferences world-wide. He is also a member of the Travel Industry Management International (TIMI) Board of Directors. With his experience and leadership skills, Robert continues to guide the Honolulu office in the continued expansion into China, India, and Southeast Asia.

 

Chris Kamaka

Chris Kamaka, Kamaka Ukulele

Chris Kamaka was born, raised, and continues to reside in Kāne‛ohe on ‛Oahu, Hawai‛i. Chris is the 3rd generation along with his brother and cousin to continue their family business, Kamaka Hawaii, Inc. He oversees the day of operation and takes pride in quality control, making sure that every ukulele that leaves the factory reflects the standard of quality that has carried the family name to 105 years of business. Excitingly, many more years to come with a 4th generation onboard with Chris’ son, Chris Kamaka Jr. In his free time, Chris enjoys playing Hawaiian music on the upright bass with various groups and artists. His music and talents have taken him weekly across the island and occasionally across the country and internationally. However, his favorite pastime is spending time with his family. Chris is blessed by his wife, Ranette, four children and four grandchildren.