It makes me realize how important it is to have a strong strategy when entering China, with many contingency plans. Though China claims the largest global population, it sometimes seems Chinese markets can be relatively small. For instance, how many Chinese speak English, can afford to spend $40,000 on an MBA, and have the incentive to spend precious time doing so. It seems unrealistic to assume that you can build a business targeting such a small niche, especially if there intense competition (both from Chinese and other foreigners).

This also goes back to what Mr. Chillingsworth stated in his presentation - if you go into China looking for profits, make sure to have an exit strategy. All these B-Schools seemingly went to China thinking they would be embraced and have long term staying power.

Good to hear from you. Glad to see you are blogging again, as you have much insight to offer from Shenzhen. Keep it up!

Yes, we again return to China this summer as part of our MBA trip. But no trip to Shenzhen this year, as we won’t have time — doing 8 days in India this year for our trip as well (and 8 days China).

Best,

Chris.

Long time no see. Are you still bringing your MBA students over to China this summer? I really think one of 2 things will happen. Beijing is completely full. All the hotels are crazy expensive and for good reason. or Beijing is somewhat full. The major hotels are booked but the rest are barren.

I’ve seen different indicators on both sides. Flights from the US was really expensive but has been going down in price due lack of demand (and new visa regulations). However, a lot of my Chinese friends have been really surprised I got tickets because they wanted them too! They suggested that I should scalp them.

Thanks for the check in.

You make some very good business good points. I agree. Nice blog, by the way.

Firstly we have to ask ourselves what the western B-schools can bring to China. Apart from a brand name which is recognisable and familiar to western CEOs and executives, it is basically an MBA conducted in English. Considering that almost all foreign ventures in China are joint ventures, it is highly possible that the person doing the recruitment are locals and/or are more familiar with the credentials of Chinese universities.

I think it will be a better idea to sell an MBA for Chinese OUTSIDE of China. Those who can afford an MBA in China will prefer to study outside of China. The rich will want to set themselves apart and learn how things are being done in the western world. Market in China but keep the money outside.

There’s no such thing as an MBA catered for the Chinese market. Even the best MBA program in the world will not be able to teach you how to anticipate policy changes in China. The best MBA program can only teach you how to select the best options when the dirt hits the fan.

By the way, all legal documents that I have gone through are in Chinese. If your MBA was conducted in Chinese then that’s a major plus point in China. My $0.05 worth~

As for the problems that universities are running into regarding the way China works, I think that most people underestimate the difficulties they may endure. Many just see China as this great emerging market with plenty of opportunities and don’t think about the problems created when you need to take the money you make in China out of China. Also, as Dr. Carr said today, China is making the visa process even more difficult as a way to purge themselves of ex-Pats who aren’t benefiting them. China isn’t dumb. It is aware of its potential and the draw it has on foreigners, but its not going to give up its gold that easily. Times are changing and it seems things are only going to get harder.