Chan, 46, now attending the first session of the 10th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) representing the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, told Xinhua "My company has invested more than US$1 billion in China. I myself have traveled far and wide in the country. I have never had any worry about my investment and my personal safety."

Mr. Chan happened to venture into Coca-Cola at the age of 22 when this world-known soft drink giant found its way back to China again. That made him a witness to the tremendous changes that have taken place since China introduced the reform and opening-up policy. His company has invested more than US$1 billion in China, making it Coca-Cola's sixth largest market in the world.

Mr. Chan, who has become a member of the 10th CPPCC National Committee not long ago, shrugged off the doubt about the future of the China market and worries about the safety of private capital and entrepreneurs. Sipping at a cup of Coca-Cola, he said: "So long as you observe the law and do your own business honestly, you'll find no where else that is so safe as here."

"China is forging ahead along a correct path," Mr. Chan added. "The 16th National Congress of the Communist Party of China has established the status of the non-public sectors of the economy. The vision on the overall development has become even clearer. Its future is inestimable."

Coca-Cola occupies more than half of the market shares in China, but it is still challenged by domestic soft drink manufacturers. "Competition is a good thing," said Mr. Chan. "It will not only stimulate the development of the soft drink industry but also benefit the common people all the more."

He spoke highly of the role of private soft drink manufacturers, saying that they would play a vital role in making the country a well-off society.

He advised Chinese private soft drink producers to devote greater energy to improving management and training personnel while paying full attention to quality and services if they wish to develop in a sustainable manner.

(Xinhua News Agency March 5, 2003)