A "golden contact" to help open doors in China, proved invaluable for the Manx delegation just back from the Far East.
Economic Development Minister John Shimmin says the group had access to someone with a great deal of local knowledge.
He says this was invaluable in many instances - for example knowing that pursuing e-gaming connections would prove futile.
Mr Shimmin says this saved embarrassment all round:
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Manx Utilities ask people to 'please use water wisely'
Advertising board proposed for airport
Company says it would bring new income into Ronaldsway
Isle of Man reviewing self-testing cervical screening kits
Update will be provided by the next administration
Former treasury minister warns against 'emotional' triple lock decision
Eddie Teare believes there's been a lack of willingness to look at the system