Connolly: 'Huge opportunities' in Asia

John Connolly, chief executive of Big Four firm Deloitte has said that there
are ‘huge opportunities’ for the UK, and his firm, in Asia.

Speaking on his visit to China and India with prime minister Gordon Brown to
help promote the UK’s economic credentials, Connolly outlined the potential
benefits from the enormous economic growth in the region.

‘With Asia being the most dynamic region in the world, there are huge
opportunities for the UK,’ he said. ‘ The visit by UK Government and business
leaders is intended to build on the special relationships that already exist
between the nations and to capitalise on opportunities as the prowess of Chinese
and Indian economies drive global markets.’

Commenting on opportunities for the firm, he added: ‘The reality is that
there is room for both new entrants and established accountancy firms in China.
The quality and number of newly qualified Chinese accountants is extremely
impressive. Deloitte in the UK is working closely with Deloitte China in
building the links to benefit from the incredible growth opportunities.’

Connolly has been joined on the trip by Ernst & Young chairman Mark Otty
and KPMG senior partner John Griffith-Jones. PricewaterhouseCoopers chairman
Kieran Poynter was also invited but declined because of a prior engagement.

An Ernst & Young spokesman said: ‘Mark’s invitation underlines the
importance of our profession to the economic wellbeing of the UK and the
opportunity the emerging markets provide to our firm.’

Further reading:

Big Four bosses join Brown on
China visit

Read
Accountancy Age editor Gavin Hinks’ thoughts on the visit