Despite the European Union’s strategy of reducing its dependence on China, leading European businesses continue to view the country as one of the world’s most important markets, innovation centers, and manufacturing platforms. This was highlighted by executives of multinational companies and industry experts commenting on the future of economic cooperation between Europe and China.
According to business leaders, intense competition in the Chinese market encourages companies to innovate more rapidly, improve their products, and strengthen their competitiveness on the global stage.
Denis Depoux, Global Managing Director of Roland Berger, compared the Chinese market to a “fitness club” for businesses, noting that companies capable of succeeding in China are well positioned to compete almost anywhere in the world.
Rogier Janssens, President of Merck China, emphasized that the company views China not only as a sales market but also as a major manufacturing and innovation base. He noted that China’s new phase of economic openness is creating additional opportunities for joint research and technological cooperation.
A similar opinion was expressed by Jean-Christophe Tellier, Chief Executive Officer of the biopharmaceutical company UCB. He pointed out that China has become a global center for rapid testing, innovation, and the application of artificial intelligence, making it one of the world’s leading drivers of technological development.
Experts note that China and the European Union remain among each other’s largest trading and economic partners. They believe that continued cooperation in manufacturing, high technology, and innovation will play a significant role in maintaining the global competitiveness of European businesses.
Read also: CMA CGM and Asyad to Invest $400 Million in a New Logistics Terminal in Oman
