Asian Pacific Business Institute

Director: Kwok (Kern) Kwong
Professor of Management

Phone: (323) 343-2899 - Fax: (323) 343-2889
E-mail:kkwong2@calstatela.edu

The Asian Pacific Business Institute, established in September 1995, aims to support and foster cooperative relationships between the college of Business and Economies and local business organizations. One of the most significant economic developments since the early 1980s is the growing importance of Asian economies and the increased economic interdependence among Asian and Latin American business which have created many business and economic opportunities. Therefore, the institute seeks to provide significant support for both the business community and the University to identify, exploit, and benefit from those opportunities.

The institute provides a wide range of expertise, services, and information to serve a wide range of audiences that includes students, faculty, scholars, professionals, and the local business community. Its activities can help advance the University's educational and public service missions, contribute to economic developments in Los Angeles, and promote understanding and interaction among people from diverse parts of the world.

By coupling its concentration on the business aspect of the Asian Pacific region with the business expertise of its members, the institute conducts research projects, publishes articles, presents training programs for Asian Pacific region executives, conducts seminars and field trips to American companies for Chinese business managers and government officials, and helps Chinese companies promote their products and purchase industrial equipment in the U.S. Various legal services are provided to American subsidiaries of Chinese firms, as well.

Its focus on faculty and student involvement includes collecting and disseminating information about research and consulting opportunities in Asian Pacific countries, organizing and arranging faculty and student exchanges with academic institutions in Asian Pacific countries, and developing and organizing internship programs for business students that can expand their career and job opportunities.