SOUTH Australia is looking to Hong Kong for further investment and to act as a link to China's growing economy. Premier Dean Brown, on a promotional visit to Hong Kong, met Governor Chris Patten yesterday to explore business and investment opportunities. The meeting centred on strengthening trade links with Hong Kong and its role as a link in developing ties with China. Mr Brown said Hong Kong investment could play a crucial role as the third partner in joint ventures on the mainland, providing capital and management expertise while South Australian companies would supply product and technical support. There are 1,000 Australian joint ventures in China. Hong Kong and China combined make up Australia's second largest trading partner. Mr Brown said Clipsal, a South Australian-based company, produced 95 per cent of its light switches in China. Clipsal employs 2,000 in Huizhou, Guangdong province. The state also has a sister agreement with Shandong province. It signed the only significant contract worth A$6.3 million (about HK$35.8 million) with Shandong to provide 200 million boilers, hatcheries, sheds and processing plant some years ago. Later this year, Mr Brown will introduce visiting Chinese dignitaries to potential partner companies in South Australia. It is also looking for companies to set up operations in the state. The state offers a 6.25 per cent payroll tax exemption for up to 10 years. Australia has a corporate tax rate of 33 per cent. Malaysian building company MBf is investing $200 million to build a resort 70 km from Adelaide. Motorola recently invested $100 million in a regional software development centre employing 400 engineers. It has plans to privatise its airport and is looking for buyers. Major exports to Hong Kong include mineral fuels, food, machinery and transport equipment.