A Showroom as a Strategic Tool, Not Just an Exhibition Space

The RILAK showroom in Guangzhou is not merely a product display area. It has been designed as a permanent professional contact point where visitors can explore the product portfolio, observe live demonstrations, conduct practical tests, hold meetings with partners, and develop cooperation on specific projects.

• Product demonstrations and comparative testing
• Technical consultations and project discussions
• Cooperation with architects, developers, and manufacturing companies
• A platform for training and proof of quality in practice

The Path to the Chinese Market: Testing, Certification, and Brand Development

The opening of the showroom is the result of several years of consistent and focused work. In 2025, six RILAK products were tested in independent laboratories in China, confirming their quality, safety, and competitiveness. As a result of this testing process, the company obtained the CCC certification for water-based interior paints, which is a mandatory requirement for legal sales in the Chinese market.

In parallel, three paint shipments were delivered by air for testing, demonstrations, and market research purposes. Another important milestone was the initiation of the RLKR trademark registration in China. The brand concept is based on RILAK’s more than 125 years of manufacturing history, while also being adapted to the visual and cultural standards of the Chinese market.

A Forum as a Platform for Cooperation and Tangible Results

The showroom opening was held in parallel with the Guangdong–Latvia Economic and Trade Forum, which served as an important platform for dialogue between Latvian and Chinese entrepreneurs. During the forum, export and investment opportunities were discussed, B2B meetings were held, and several cooperation agreements were signed, along with additional agreements on future projects.

Diplomatic Support – A Key Element of Export Development

Significant support for the showroom opening and related activities was provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia and the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in the People’s Republic of China, facilitating institutional dialogue and strengthening trust. Special appreciation is also extended to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Latvia and the Chinese Ambassador to Latvia for their involvement and support in promoting exports to China.

Local Partner and Market Presence

RILAK’s representation and the development of the RLKR brand in China are ensured by Lijia International Technology (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd, the official factory representative and RLKR brand distributor in China. The presence of a local partner enables product adaptation to market requirements and ensures the operation of the showroom as a permanent contact point for clients and partners.

Acknowledgements

The Riga Paint and Varnish Factory expresses its sincere appreciation for the support provided:

• Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) – EU export support for testing, certification, and brand development;
• Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) – consultations, contact exchanges, and international networking;
• Latvian Chemical and Pharmaceutical Association – support for export activities;
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia and the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in China;
• Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Latvia and the Chinese Ambassador to Latvia;
• as well as all cooperation partners in Latvia and China.

Looking Ahead

The opening of the showroom in Guangzhou is not an endpoint, but the beginning of the next development phase – product demonstrations, testing, professional training sessions, and cooperation projects across the Chinese market. RILAK continues to expand its international presence based on quality, proven technical expertise, and long-term partnerships.