The EU-China Business Association (EUCBA) was honored to host an exclusive luncheon with H.E. Mr. Suo Peng, Minister for Trade and Economy at the Chinese Mission to the EU, on 9 October 2025 at De Warande in Brussels.
The event gathered distinguished guests from European institutions, business leaders, and representatives from both European and Chinese companies to exchange views on the evolving landscape of EU-China economic relations. With nearly two decades of experience in the Department of European Affairs at the Ministry of Commerce of China, and diplomatic postings in Sweden and Tanzania, Minister Suo brings exceptional expertise in EU–China economic relations.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of EU–China diplomatic relations — half a century of dialogue, exchange, and cooperation that has built one of the world’s most significant economic partnerships.
Minister Suo Peng first of all conveyed the regrets of His Excellency Mr. Cai Run, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the European Union, who was unable to join the luncheon as he was delivering an important address at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, an engagement that could not be rescheduled. He sent his warm regards and is looking forward to joining us on a future occasion.
In his keynote address, Minister Suo Peng delivered an in-depth speech on “The Outlook of EU-China Trade and Investment Relations.” He highlighted the opportunities and challenges shaping the partnership between Europe and China, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust, open dialogue, and pragmatic cooperation to ensure long-term growth and stability in bilateral trade.
Minister Suo also underlined China’s continued commitment to market opening, sustainable development, and collaboration in innovation and green transformation, encouraging European companies to explore new business and investment opportunities in China’s evolving market landscape.
The luncheon was opened by Mr. Jochum Haakma, Chairman of the EU-China Business Association, who underlined the strong and long-standing relationship between European and Chinese business communities, reaffirming the EUCBA’s role as a platform for constructive engagement.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to exchange perspectives directly with Minister Suo Peng on key topics such as trade policy, market access, and investment trends, fostering a spirit of mutual understanding and collaboration.
The EUCBA is the leading network of bilateral China business associations committed to strengthening economic and trade relations between China and the European Union. The Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce (FCCC) holds the vice-presidency and is in charge of the management of EUCBA.
