The China-Germany Hidden Champions Forum 2025 recently convened in Beijing from May 25 to 27, focusing on the significance of collaboration and investment within the Chinese market for European business leaders.
“Hidden Champions” denote small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that, despite their relative obscurity, are leaders in niche markets globally. Among the 2,734 such enterprises worldwide, a significant majority are found in Europe, with over 1,300 based in Germany alone.
This year’s forum attracted over 600 participants from various sectors, including business leaders and government officials, highlighting the increase from 60 delegations in 2024, led by Walter Doring, chairman of the Senate of Economy Europe.
Representatives expressed that with China being the second-largest economy and a massive consumer base, it remains essential for global business strategies. Companies like M-Tech GmbH noted that 20 percent of their global market share derives from China, illustrating confidence in ongoing growth. Additionally, the Wilo Group plans to expand its R&D presence in China significantly by 2025.
The German Chamber of Commerce in China reported that 51 percent of German firms intend to heighten their investments in China over the next two years, emphasizing the necessity to stay competitive. This forum coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, with experts advocating for enhanced cooperation in engineering and technology.
Source: news.cgtn.com
