China and Germany are advancing their business and technology collaboration, with the flow of expertise and innovation now moving in both directions, according to a new joint research report unveiled in Beijing. This shift marks a departure from the previous trend where technology predominantly moved from Germany to China.
The report was presented at the China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2026, held in Beijing’s Shunyi district. The event gathered over 400 business leaders and representatives from Europe and China. It highlighted that a significant number of European companies are looking to expand their operations in China, with about 38 percent of surveyed firms planning to boost their research and development investments there. Furthermore, 40 percent of these companies aim to grant their Chinese branches more autonomy from their German headquarters.
In a reciprocal move, major Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like Li Auto and NIO have set up research and design centers in Germany, signaling a growing two-way technological exchange. This trend underscores the increasing depth of collaboration between the two countries in the tech sector.
The forum also announced the opening of a public service station to support businesses in overcoming technical trade barriers. Additionally, a new partnership initiative was launched to encourage German and European companies to engage with Beijing’s economic and technological cooperation zone in Shunyi.
According to Tang Wenhong, Beijing is committed to further facilitating partnerships between Chinese and German enterprises. The city aims to attract more innovative companies to enhance its status as an international hub for science and technology.