In a significant boost to bilateral relations, China and Germany are enhancing their cooperation in business and technology, with innovation increasingly moving in both directions, a joint research report reveals. This report was presented at the China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2026, an event in Beijing’s Shunyi district attended by over 400 business leaders and representatives from Europe and China.
The findings indicate a shift in the dynamics of collaboration, with numerous European companies looking to expand their footprint in China. According to the report, 38 percent of European firms surveyed are planning to increase investment in research and development within China. Additionally, 40 percent of these companies aim to grant their Chinese subsidiaries more operational autonomy away from their German headquarters.
This evolving partnership is mirrored by Chinese companies’ activities in Europe, particularly in the automotive sector. Notably, major Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like Li Auto and NIO have set up research and design centers in Germany, showcasing a burgeoning technological exchange.
The forum also witnessed the inauguration of a public service station geared toward assisting businesses in overcoming technical trade barriers. Furthermore, a new partnership initiative was launched to encourage German and European companies to engage with Beijing’s economic and technological cooperation zone in Shunyi.
Speaking at the event, Tang Wenhong emphasized Beijing’s commitment to furthering collaborations between Chinese and German enterprises. He highlighted plans to attract more innovative companies to reinforce Beijing’s status as a leading international science and technology hub.