China and Germany are enhancing their bilateral cooperation in business and technology, marked by a notable shift in innovation and expertise sharing between the two nations. This development was highlighted in a recent joint research report unveiled at the China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2026 in Beijing. The event, hosted in the Shunyi district, attracted over 400 business leaders and representatives from both Europe and China.
The report reveals a growing trend among European companies to expand their operations in China. Approximately 38 percent of surveyed firms from Europe expressed intentions to boost their research and development investments within China. Additionally, 40 percent of these companies are planning to grant their Chinese subsidiaries more autonomy from their German headquarters, signifying a deeper commitment to the Chinese market.
Simultaneously, the collaboration is reciprocated, as evidenced by prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers such as Li Auto and NIO establishing research and design centers in Germany. This move underscores the increasing technological exchange and partnership between the two countries, enhancing the flow of innovation in both directions.
During the forum, a new public service station was launched to assist businesses in navigating technical trade barriers. Moreover, a partnership initiative was introduced to encourage German and European companies to engage with Beijing’s economic and technological cooperation zone in Shunyi, fostering further collaboration.
Tang Wenhong emphasized Beijing’s commitment to supporting and expanding these cooperative efforts, aiming to attract more innovative companies. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the city’s status as an international hub for science and technology.