Ireland the 'Hong Kong of Europe'

LONDON - Irish business leaders are eyeing China as a huge export market, while Dublin sees itself as an ideal destination for Chinese investors seeking opportunities in Europe.

Ireland's low corporate tax rate and its language advantage as the only English-speaking country in the eurozone are seen as major attractions for more potential Chinese enterprises.

"China's investments in Ireland had a slow start, but significantly grew in the last two to three years," said Brian Conroy, director of Asia-Pacific at Industrial Development Agency, Ireland's investment promotion agency.