The delegation - representing industries in the Huairou district, northeast of Beijing - will spend two days at Westminster College in Salt Lake City, forging friendships and commercial ties that organizers believe will prove profitable to both regions.

"We're trying to promote all aspects of business growth," said organizer SuAn Chow of the international "matchmaking" firm Satori Enterprises International. "Whether you are importing or exporting, there are a lot of opportunities in both directions."

While the delegation will urge increased trade with China, organizers reject the idea that such ties could rob Utah of commerce by shipping jobs and operations overseas. They say a closer connection with China could expand both economies.

"Trade is a two-way street," Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon said. "We want to make sure we are able to sell our goods in China as well. We each want the same thing, which is to improve our economy."

The China Business Forum runs today and Thursday at Westminster College. The delegation includes industry executives specializing in medical instruments, food and beverages, pharmacy and information technology.

- Jeremiah Stettler