China and Germany are elevating their partnership in business and technology, showcasing a shift towards a more balanced exchange of expertise and innovation. This was highlighted in a new joint research report unveiled in Beijing, signaling a transition from a previously one-sided flow of knowledge from Germany to China towards a mutually beneficial collaboration.
The announcement took place at the China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2026, hosted in Beijing’s Shunyi district. The event gathered over 400 business leaders and representatives from both Europe and China, underscoring the growing interest in bilateral cooperation. According to the findings, a significant number of European firms are keen on expanding their footprint in China. Notably, 38 percent of the surveyed companies expressed plans to boost their research and development investments in the region, while 40 percent intend to grant more autonomy to their Chinese branches, allowing them to operate more independently from their German headquarters.
Reflecting this trend of deeper collaboration, major Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like Li Auto and NIO have been setting up research and design centers in Germany. This move highlights the increasing flow of technological exchange between the two nations, as both Chinese and German companies seek to leverage each other’s strengths in innovation and development.
The forum also saw the introduction of a public service station aimed at assisting businesses in overcoming technical trade barriers. Additionally, a new partnership initiative was launched to encourage German and European companies to engage in Beijing’s economic and technological cooperation zone located in Shunyi. This initiative is part of a broader effort to foster closer economic ties and facilitate the exchange of technology and expertise.
Looking ahead, Beijing is set on enhancing its support for collaborations between Chinese and German enterprises. Tang Wenhong emphasized the city’s commitment to attracting more innovative companies, thereby reinforcing Beijing’s status as a global hub for science and technology.