EU SME Centre publishes report on SMEs in China and article on how to export pet food products to China

SMEs in China: Policy Environment Report – June 2022 Update

In recent years, the policy environment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China has undergone a significant transformation. Our new report sets out to provide an overview of the most significant developments affecting SMEs operating in the country.

While two-thirds of European businesses who took part in the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China’s Business Confidence Survey 2022 continued to report revenues in China in 2021, stringent Covid-19 control measures and unpredictable lockdowns, combined with other factors, have dented business confidence.

SMEs are as a rule more exposed to disruptions in the economy and the Covid-19 pandemic was no exception: SMEs were the first to be hit and the last to recover. The Shanghai lockdown in spring 2022 proved particularly devastating to small businesses in the city and beyond.

The disruptions in business operations and increased uncertainty have prompted policymakers to take new measures and regulations to support the economy. In addition, 2021 saw the publication of the 14th Five-Year Plan for the Development of SMEs, which sets the agenda for future SME-related policies and regulations for the next half a decade.

Our report comprises an introduction to SMEs in China and an analysis of the current policy environment for SMEs in various areas, with a clear overview of the challenges and priorities that will contribute to shaping this environment in the coming years. Updated in June 2022 with the latest policies and studies conducted specifically on SMEs, our report is available for free download after logging in to the website here .

Article on how to export pet food products to China: market access requirements and procedures

Based on the research and analysis given by the EU SME Centre's report on the “Market for Pet Food, Supplies, and Services in China”, dog and cat owners in urban areas of China are paying increasingly more attention to their pets’ health and nutrition. Pet food, treats, supplies, services, as well as care and medical attention, are all seeing a surge in popularity amongst Chinese consumers. Companies operating within the pet product sector are witnessing an upward trend of sustainable growth, driven by consumers’ preferences and demand for higher quality. You can find the article here .