THE flag of China was flying over Betws last week as local businessesmen Chris Parrott and Will Neillans of Fieldmaster Tractors welcomed the chairman and director of Longhua Machinery Group to sign an investment opportunity for their business.

Mr Lv Longhua, Machinery Group chairman, and Mr Zhang Longhua, Machinery Group technical director, signed a joint venture agreement with Fieldmaster Tractors to a form a new company as Longhua Fieldmaster.

The new business will manufacture compact tractors and machinery to European standards that will be assembled here in Wales, with the first new products being available for sale in around 18 months.

Betws-based Fieldmaster Tractors supplies quality compact tractors, implements and parts. It has also extended its range of products to include sub-compact tractors ranging from 18 to 28 horsepower, and a mid-range tractor of 40 to 50 horsepower.

In the meantime, Mr Parrott says Longhua Fieldmaster will continue to distribute compact tractors and machinery from its current suppliers.

It also aims to develop a base of dealers and clients, and take on more workers., “building a dealer and client base and steadily employing more staff over the period”

He added: “I’m delighted to have been able to welcome Messrs Longhua to Carmarthenshire to not only discuss how we can work together, but to showcase some of the best scenery and attractions that west Wales has to offer.

“It’s fantastic news for the business that we have been able to turn our understanding into a formal investment agreement.

“I know my new business partners were impressed with the warm welcome they received from all they met, including the Welsh Government officials who have supported our joint venture talks."

Local MP Jonathan Edwards, who has been assisting Mr Parrott, met with the Chinese delegation.

He highlighted the many benefits of trading from Carmarthenshire, as well as the opportunities for skilled local employment in the near future.

Mr Parrott added: “The hard work starts now as we look to expand the business. I anticipate our new products will be on sale in around 18 months. In the meantime we will be building a dealer and client base and steadily employing more staff over the period.”

Jonathan Edwards said: “It was a pleasure to have been asked to personally meet with the delegation.

“Wales has a long history of direct foreign investment. I have no doubt that the deal struck by Longhua Fieldmaster will see increased skilled employment in the area.

“I warmly congratulate Chris and Will and look forward to seeing their business grow from strength to strength.”