Canadian tech firms eye Chinese market

As China tries to build a more consumer-driven economy, Canadian companies are vying to be part of it. With help from the government, some tech firms are already making strides in the country.

The burgeoning relationship between China and Canada is well documented. The acquisition of energy giant Nexen, by China's National Offshore Oil Company made headlines around the world. The love-in is far from over The Canadian government is pushing for further trade with China. Prime Minister Stephen Harper is keen to diversify exports beyond energy and agriculture.

Stephen Harper, Canadian Prime Minister, said, "The tourism industry is particularly valuable. It's one of the few industries in the world where the raw material is goodwill - and the finished product is friendship."

Technology is another - high yielding - area for export growth. Trade delegations have embarked across the Pacific to charm and strike deals with Chinese buyers. For some tech firms, the groundwork is already paying off.

Dana Fox, Clevru Corporation, said, "For companies like RIM, Opentext, Desire To Learn - any of the other famous successful companies here in this market - I think there's a tremendous opportunity to export technology."

Dana Fox started ClevrU corp - a company that sells educational software - with China firmly in his sights. Monthly visits to Chinese cities - and constant contacts with clients - has helped the company grow exponentially.

Registered users grew 4, 000 per cent, in 12 months. It's become a model of how success in China can be achieved. But with success, comes the risk of imitation. And in the digital economy - the possibility of another firm copying an idea is very apparent. The Chinese marketplace has a reputation to fight off.

Dana Fox said ,"You're seeing a whole new industry of IP lawyers - patent protection - there's work to be done - and that is true - but I think they've made great strides in the last few years to try and address the issue around IP protection."

A growing middle-class in China poses a huge opportunity for companies looking to expand beyond north America. As China looks to build a more consumer driven-economy, companies from around the world are queuing up to be a part of it. The Canadian government's task now - is helping its companies be at the front of the line.