The RIBA is leading a trade mission to China for small practices, many of whom are struggling to find work in the UK.

The trip to Hong Kong and Shenzhen, organised with the UKTI, includes Patel Taylor, the Manser Practice and London-based firm Sybarite.

Also selected to go on the week-long visit are Dexter Moren, Ambo, Stuart Forbes and Hester Architects. The trip leaves on February 25.

The mission, led by RIBA president Angela Brady and RIBA London director Tamsie Thomson, will introduce participants to potential clients from across southern China, as well as helping those who have little experience of working in Asia to understand the opportunities.

In Hong Kong they will meet established practices to learn about operating on China’s mainland as well as other potential partners such as engineers.

In Shenzhen, less than an hour by train and a key financial centre, they will be introduced to potential clients.

“The region is experiencing phenomenal growth and there are big opportunities,” said Owen Wainhouse, policy manager at RIBA London.

Charlie Sutherland, a director of Sutherland Hussey, three-quarters of whose work is now in China, praised the initiative but warned small practices that China could be a “minefield” for the uninitiated.

Windows on Shanghai

The RIBA is planning to bring its Regent Street Windows concept to Shanghai this year.

The British Council is teaming 10 UK practices with top brands to create bespoke windows along one of the city’s most prestigious streets. It follows the success of a similar project in London last year and a RIBA London trade mission to Shanghai for larger practices two years ago.