On 5 May, the Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce (FCCC) had the pleasure of welcoming members to Hotel Falligan in Ghent for an insightful session on China’s evolving role in the global economy with Philippe Snel (lawyer and founder of Dawo Law Firm in Shanghai).
The event opened with remarks by Gwenn Sonck, (Executive Director FCCC), who underlined that China offers a predictable policy environment compared to other major economies. In today’s geopolitical context, marked by uncertainty, predictability is exactly what companies need in order to plan, invest and grow sustainably. With 5% growth in the first quarter of the year, China also remains one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world.
This was followed by an in-depth presentation by Philippe Snel on the opportunities, risks and strategic dilemmas European companies face in today’s rapidly evolving China landscape.
Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience in China and his daily legal practice in Shanghai, Philippe shared practical insights into how foreign companies are reassessing their China strategies and adapting to a new reality in which China is no longer only a market, but increasingly a driver of global supply chains, innovation and industrial transformation.
One of the key takeaways of the evening was that companies can no longer afford to observe China from a distance. Businesses increasingly need to strengthen their presence in China, follow developments in real time and build long-term partnerships with Chinese stakeholders.
Particularly relevant for participants was the discussion on China’s growing leadership across industries such as EVs, shipbuilding, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, the implications this has for European companies operating globally, and how businesses increasingly need to work together with China.
A valuable and highly interactive exchange, with engaging discussions throughout the evening.
