China syndrome.

MAYOR Antonio Villaraigosa made fashion news on his Asian trade mission last week, opening the first "Made in L.A." clothing section in a Golden Eagle Department store in Shanghai.

"Los Angeles is a brand name that sells worldwide," said Mayor Villaraigosa. The mayor's 16-day trip through China, Japan and South Korea is an effort to promote Los Angeles as a place to visit and expand markets for L.A. companies.

"L.A. is synonymous with trend-setting style, innovation and creativity." The Shanghai Golden Eagle, one of China's most prominent department stores, is designating 3,000 square feet for clothes by L.A. designers, including ABS by Allen Schwartz and Sabrina Kay Collection.

These departments are a natural marriage for L.A., which is rich in designers, and China, where so many garments are made.

Villaraigosa will open another L.A. section in Seoul's Hyundai Department Store this week with a fashion show featuring Los Angeles-based designs.

L.A. tourism is also getting a boost. The Los Angeles Convention and Visitor's Bureau is contributing memorabilia including the Rodeo Drive and Hollywood visitor's maps.

Fifty members of the local business community, including Los Angeles Business Journal Publisher Matt Toledo, are accompanying Villaraigosa on the trip.