Chinese food, drink and music were on the menu when Gwent business people gathered to celebrate Chinese New Year and learn about Far East markets at the University of Wales College, Newport (UWCN).

The Enter the Dragon evening was organised by UWCN's School of Business and Management to promote trade in Hong Kong and China.

Kath Ringwald, the university's head of research and income generation, said: "Over 60 local business people came along and enjoyed a Chinese buffet before talking to a range of experts about establishing business links with the Far East.

"There was a lot of interest In my presentation about the economic conditions that make the region an attractive sourcing location for UK manufacturers."

Ms Ringwald has been working in China since 1997.

Other speakers at the event included entrepreneur Luke Chow, who spoke about small and medium-sized businesses in China, and guest speaker David Marsden of the Hong Kong Trades Development Council.

The Assembly's Wales Trade International and Welsh Development Agency were also present at the event which was organised for the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

In March, UWCN is running a two-day course for anyone interested in trading with Hong Kong and China.

For information and booking e-mail Caroline Carr at caroline.carr@newport.ac.uk