In a significant stride towards enhancing bilateral relations, China and Germany are bolstering their cooperation in business and technology. This partnership, once characterized by a one-way flow of expertise from Germany to China, is now evolving into a more reciprocal exchange, as highlighted in a new joint research report unveiled in Beijing. The report was presented at the China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2026, an event that drew over 400 executives and business leaders from both Europe and China to Beijing’s Shunyi district.
The findings of the report indicate a growing interest among European companies to expand their footprint in China. Notably, 38 percent of surveyed European firms expressed plans to ramp up their research and development investments within China. Additionally, 40 percent of these companies intend to grant their Chinese subsidiaries more autonomy from their German headquarters, signaling a shift towards a more decentralized operational model.
Meanwhile, Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers such as Li Auto and NIO are making strategic moves to establish research and design centers in Germany. This development underscores the increasing two-way technological collaboration between the two nations, as Chinese firms seek to leverage German engineering prowess to boost their innovation and competitiveness in the global market.
The forum also served as the launchpad for a new public service station aimed at assisting businesses in overcoming technical trade barriers. Furthermore, a fresh partnership initiative was introduced to encourage German and European companies to engage with Beijing’s economic and technological cooperation zone in Shunyi. This initiative is expected to facilitate deeper economic ties and foster a conducive environment for innovation and collaboration.
Tang Wenhong highlighted Beijing’s commitment to nurturing this burgeoning cooperation between Chinese and German enterprises. The city aims to attract more innovative companies and fortify its role as an international hub for science and technology. This strategic focus is poised to strengthen Beijing’s global standing and drive further advancements in the fields of business and technology.