Tianjin's various attraction, both modern and traditional. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Hart's team, which initially only had four members, now numbers more than 60, and he noted that they are now planning to serve cities outside of Tianjin, such as Tangshan and Shijiazhuang in neighboring Hebei province.

Hart commented that although Tianjin's services industry has developed rapidly, manufacturing is still the dominant sector in the city. It is this powerful manufacturing foundation, however, that has seen Tianjin attract such industrial giants as Otis, Samsung, Toyota and Volkswagen. As well as this there are the pharmaceutical, petrochemical and electronics industries, and a solid foundation in aerospace, thanks to the operations of Airbus, Boeing, Rockwell Collins and China Aviation Industry Corp.

Hart added that the city is also very suitable for family life, and his two children have received an excellent education there. On top of this, dining and shopping options in Tianjin have increased in recent years, with Galaxy Mall, Joy City and Kerry Center all contributing to its atmosphere and livability.