The Road Ahead for European Businesses in China

On February 18, MERICS held a closed-door discussion with leading experts and industry representatives on “The Road Ahead for European Businesses in China”. 

We were delighted that Jens Eskelund, President of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China (EUCCC), discussed the recently published Position Paper 2024/2025. MERICS Lead Analyst Jacob Gunter presented research on China’s overcapacities. Industry experts shared their expectations and scenarios for the coming months, including Matthias Blum (VCI), Jendrik Niebuhr (VDA), Clemens Otte (ZVEI), Friedolin Strack (BDI) and Oliver Wack (VDMA). China’s growing trade surplus, weak consumption growth, deflation risks and declining profitability make a deeply unhealthy cocktail for its economy. Xi Jinpings message is clear: China must remain focused on self-reliance and industrial resilience to achieve its modernization goals. European companies in China have to navigate slowing growth, Beijing’s lack of commitment to them and geopolitical turbulence. With business confidence at an all-time low, the EUCCC’s flagship publication focuses on the urgent need for the Chinese authorities to deliver on the reform commitments announced last year. At the same time, the European market might hold up high trade defense measure to secure their own economy from Chinese products flooding the European market.

Speakers: 

• Jens Eskelund, President, European Union Chamber of Commerce in China 
• Jacob Gunter, Senior Analyst, MERICS 
• Matthias Blum, Head of Foreign Trade Department, VCI
• Jendrik Niebuhr, Consultant Trade Policy, VDA 
• Clemens Otte, Director Microelectronics & Cables, ZVEI 
• Friedolin Strack, Head of Department International Markets, BDI 
• Oliver Wack, Consultant Foreign Trade - East Asia, South Asia, Trade Policy, World Trade Organization (WTO), VDMA 

Moderator: 

• Claudia Wessling, Director Communications and Publications, MERICS 

After the presentation and initial comments, participants were invited to ask questions and engage in the discussion. The meeting was confidential and by personal invitation only (Chatham House Rules). 

This hybrid event is part of our portfolio for MERICS Members and key stakeholders. We are always available to answer any questions you may have.