On November 2, Foshan hosted its inaugural European Enterprise Day at the Foshan Sino-German Industrial Services Zone in Sanlongwan Sci-Tech City, marking a new milestone in fostering cooperation between European companies and Foshan's dynamic industrial landscape. Coinciding with the opening of China-Europe Culture Week, this event was organized to bridge European enterprises and Foshan's government, offering a platform for direct dialogue and support.
The event allowed European business representatives and officials from various Foshan government departments to engage in open discussions, where enterprises could share insights into their growth, current challenges, and needs within the local market. Government representatives assured European companies of Foshan's ongoing commitment to improving services, citing recent initiatives like establishing a dedicated SME Services Bureau to better support companies navigating the local regulatory and market environment.
Government officials encouraged companies to reach out for any support they may need. "We are deeply committed to supporting market expansion and building a business-friendly environment to bolster company growth and enhance investment confidence." said Martin Klose, the Executive Director of the China-Germany Chamber of Commerce in South and Southwest China.
Klaus Zenkel, Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in China and Chair of the South China Chapter, echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about this new platform for face-to-face exchanges. He noted the EU Chamber's longstanding commitment to fostering economic and cultural ties, stating, "Foshan's ever-improving business environment, particularly within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, is paving the way for enhanced cooperation in areas such as green technology and low-carbon development.”
The event also attracted newcomers to the Foshan market, such as Würth (China) Co., Ltd. Though they have yet to establish a local office, its CEO Ji Xiufeng was eager to expand the company's footprint in Foshan, having already connected with several local clients through the Sanlongwan Sci-Tech City Management Committee. Ji shared the company's ambition to set up a local branch and strengthen Foshan's industrial supply chain.
Foshan's solid reputation as an industrial powerhouse in South China has long attracted global business, particularly European companies. Currently, Foshan hosts over 6,800 foreign-invested companies, with 71 Fortune Global 500 companies running 154 projects across the city. Notably, 182 European projects with a combined registered capital of $560 million are currently active, involving prominent firms such as SEW, FAW-Volkswagen, Osram, Andritz, and Valeo. Foshan's Sino-German Industrial Services Zone has been instrumental in these efforts, providing a specialized platform for collaboration in technology, manufacturing, and talent development.
Wu Lei, Deputy Secretary of the Party Working Committee and Director of Sanlongwan Sci-Tech City's Management Committee, emphasized that the Services Zone is a unique blend of modern urban infrastructure and scenic rural landscapes, making it an attractive destination for global investors. Wu invited attendees to participate in Sanlongwan's upcoming New Year Cycling Tour, promising an inspiring view of the area's natural beauty and industrial innovation.
With these initiatives, Foshan reaffirms its commitment to cultivating a welcoming and supportive environment for foreign investment, aiming to bolster its role as a global business hub and a catalyst for collaborative growth.
Reporter丨Lynn
Revisor丨Zoey, Eleanor
Source丨Management Committee of Foshan Sanlongwan Sci-Tech City, Nanfang Plus
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