The Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce and the Province of West Flanders are pleased to invite you to an in-person event focused on: "China's Innovation Drive: what can we learn?". This seminar will take place on 26 November 2024 at 15h30 CET at the Provincial Court,  Markt 3, 8000 Bruges.

As the global landscape evolves, understanding and adapting to the shifts in China's business environment is paramount for success. Today you will hear more about how Flemish and Chinese business leaders are adapting their approach to a changing China. During this session you will learn how to re-think your China strategy. With practical insights, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and strategies essential for thriving in this dynamic marketplace.

During this seminar, you will also hear more about the innovation trip to China, which will be organised by the Province of West-Flanders and the Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce. From 24 to 31 May, 2025, the innovation mission will visit Shanghai, Hangzhou and Shenzhen. The visit will enable you to gain a better insight in China's innovation and what we can learn from it.

The programme of the seminar is as follows:

15:00-15:30: Registration

15:30-15:35: Words of welcome Mr. Carl Decaluwé, Governor, Province of West Flanders

15:35-15:40: Introduction by Ms. Gwenn Sonck, Executive Director, Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce

15:40-16:00: Views and experiences on China's innovation by Mr. Rudy Aernoudt, Professor Corporate Finance and European policy (University of Ghent, Nancy and BMI), author, columnist.

16:00-16:45: Insights and Experiences on Innovation

16:00-16:15: Mr. Thomas Baert, President, Cfl flooring

16:15-16:30: Ms. Jennifer Wang, Head of Tmall Global Europe, Alibaba

16:30-16:45: Mr. David Spence, Head of Brussels Office, Government Relations Europe, NIO

16:45-17:15: Panel discussion

17:15-17:30: Presentation Innovation Mission to China in May 2025

17:30-17:35: Closing by Mr. Carl Decaluwé, Governor, Province of West Flanders

17:35: Networking reception hosted by the Province of West-Flanders