The Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce and the Province of West Flanders organized an in-person event focused on: “China’s Innovation Drive: what can we learn?” on 26 November 2024 at the Official Residence of the Governor of the Province of West-Flanders in Bruges. The FCCC was represented by Mr. Philippe Latour, Chairman, and Ms. Gwenn Sonck, Executive Director.
During the seminar, participants discussed how Flemish business leaders are adapting their strategies in response to a changing China and how Chinese entrepreneurs are navigating their expansion into overseas markets. Mr. Carl Decaluwé, Governor of the West Flanders and Ms.Gwenn Sonck, Executive Director of the FCCC, delivered welcome speeches.
Renowned experts shared their perspectives and experiences regarding China's innovation landscape, including: Mr. Prof. Rudy Aernoudt, Professor of Corporate Finance and European Policy (University of Ghent, Nancy, and BMI), author, and columnist; Mr. Thomas Baert, President of CFL Flooring; Ms. Jennifer Wang, Head of Tmall Global Europe, Alibaba Group; and Mr. David Spence, Head of Brussels Office, Government Relations Europe, NIO.
The province of West Flanders and the FCCC also announced an upcoming innovation mission to China from 24 to 31 May 2025. Mrs. Kristien Vandamme provided an overview of the mission, including visits to Shenzhen, Hangzhou, and Shanghai.
This mission offers business leaders an unparalleled opportunity to explore China's dynamic innovation environment.
