Xiamen companies should take advantage of the Belt and Road Initiative to expand the overseas market, said Li Xiaoping, director of Xiamen's Foreign Affairs Office.

Li made the remarks during a meeting with founders of Xiamen companies on Oct 29.

He encouraged them to serve the BRI while taking advantage of preferential policies and resources from the central government and companies.

Wen Jianhuai, president of Goldenhome Kitchen, a supplier of integrated kitchen cabinets and custom-made furnishings, said he plans to explore more overseas markets and expressed hope that more resources and government support would be offered to lower the risk of overseas investment.

Li suggested they keep a close eye on policies related to consular protection by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and try to avoid legal and financial risks in overseas investment.

He promised that the foreign affairs office will continue using its resources in sister cities, partner cities, overseas business associations, and overseas embassies and consulates of Xiamen to benefit local companies.

Statistics from Xiamen Customs show that the city recorded 465.3 billion yuan ($65.8 billion) in imports and exports over the first three quarters of 2019, up 3.9 percent year-on-year.

Imports and exports between Xiamen and ASEAN and EU countries were valued at 77.23 and 65.47 billion yuan, respectively, representing year-on-year increases of 4.2 percent and 7.4 percent. Trade between Xiamen and the US decreased 18.9 percent to 63.53 billion yuan over the same period.