Switzerland is set to open a consulate general in Chengdu, capital of Southwest China's Sichuan province, in November.

Frank Eggmann has been appointed the consul general. An official opening ceremony has been scheduled for early 2017.

This will be Switzerland's fifth official representation in China, in addition to the embassy in Beijing and the consulates general in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong.

The consulate general covers the provinces of Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan and Chongqing municipality.

Chengdu has experienced rapid economic growth in recent years, with a significant number of Swiss companies based there.

The tasks of the consulate general will focus on the economy, trade, innovation and tourism.

Eggmann said it would also contribute to the cultural exchanges between China and Switzerland.