Recent developments in the realm of international business and technology highlight a strengthening alliance between China and Germany, as revealed in a new joint research report. This collaboration, once characterized by a one-way flow of expertise from Germany to China, now sees innovation traveling in both directions. The findings were presented at the China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2026, a significant event held in Beijing’s Shunyi district, attracting over 400 business leaders and representatives from Europe and China.
The report indicates a strategic shift among European companies, many of which are looking to expand their footprint in China. Notably, 38 percent of these firms plan to boost their research and development investments within the country. Moreover, 40 percent of these businesses are aiming to grant their Chinese branches more autonomy from their German headquarters, fostering a more localized approach to operations.
On the other side of this burgeoning partnership, prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like Li Auto and NIO have established research and design centers in Germany. This move underscores the mutual exchange of technological expertise and reflects the expanding scope of two-way cooperation in innovation between the two nations.
The forum also marked the inception of a public service station aimed at assisting businesses in overcoming technical trade barriers. Additionally, a new initiative was launched to encourage German and other European companies to engage with Beijing’s economic and technological cooperation zone located in Shunyi, further enhancing the collaborative landscape.
Speaking on the future of this bilateral cooperation, Tang Wenhong emphasized Beijing’s commitment to fostering closer ties between Chinese and German businesses. The city aims to attract more innovative enterprises, reinforcing its position as a global hub for science and technology.