Firm offers comprehensive security to Chinese employees

Chinese companies have been paying greater attention to protecting employees' health and travel security, especially those on overseas business trips, experts said.

The trend comes amid a growing awareness of risk prevention as more firms seek expansion in economies involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, said Joel Gosset, CEO of International SOS China, in an interview. International SOS is the world's leading medical and travel security assistance company.

Addressing the 2018 International SOS Annual Conference, Gosset said the company is heavily investing in medical and security capacities worldwide, and is able to offer a turn-key infrastructure for organizations expanding globally along the BRI, so they can operate with reduced operational risks and greater peace of mind.

To better satisfy consumer needs, International SOS tailor-makes service for the market. For example, there is a full-fledged team that speaks Chinese and provides localized services, according to Gosset.

"Two to three years ago, Chinese companies used to purchase basic service for their employees. Nowadays, they prefer a more comprehensive set of services, and they know how to make full use of it," said John Williams, managing director for Partnership and Government Affairs at International SOS China and Asia Pacific.

International SOS saw healthy and stable growth in China. So far this year, revenue in the Chinese market climbed about 10 percent, similar to global figures, according to the company.

Established in 1985, International SOS provides services for overseas workers and staff on business trips from international companies, government institutions and organizations.

For instance, during the South Sudan evacuation in July 2016, International SOS handled 80 information and assistance requests, and evacuated 212 staff members from 16 firms. Forty-two information requests and seven assistance requests were from Chinese clients.