On 7 May 2026, the Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BCECC) hosted the event “Bridging Markets: Belgium-China Business Exchange” in Brussels, bringing together business leaders, policymakers and experts to discuss the changing dynamics of economic cooperation between Belgium, Europe and China. The event reflected BCECC’s longstanding mission to connect Belgian and Chinese companies and to strengthen bilateral business ties through dialogue, expertise and practical cooperation. In a global environment marked by shifting trade patterns, geopolitical uncertainties and accelerating industrial transformation, the event provided valuable insights into both the opportunities and challenges defining the Belgium-China business landscape.
A relationship defined by interdependence
The economic relationship between China and the European Union remains one of the most significant in the world. China is among the EU’s largest trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching hundreds of billions of euros annually, highlighting the depth of economic interdependence between the two markets.
At the same time, this relationship is increasingly complex. European policymakers describe China simultaneously as a partner, a competitor and a systemic rival. This nuanced positioning reflects a broader transformation in global trade, in which cooperation and competition coexist more closely than ever before. Speakers emphasized that Belgium, as a key logistics hub in Europe, continues to play a strategic role in facilitating trade flows and investment between China and the EU.
China’s industrial strength and global impact
One of the key themes addressed was China’s growing industrial strength. Today, China accounts for around 30% of global manufacturing output, with expectations that this share will continue to increase significantly in the coming decade.
China’s leadership in sectors such as electric vehicles, battery production and advanced manufacturing technologies highlights its role as a global industrial powerhouse. At comparable quality levels, Chinese products are often produced at considerably lower cost, reinforcing the competitiveness of Chinese exports in international markets.
For Belgian and European companies, this results in both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, access to Chinese supply chains and innovation ecosystems offers clear advantages. On the other hand, increased competition is affecting domestic industries across Europe. Studies indicate that a significant share of European manufacturing output is exposed to Chinese competition, illustrating the structural impact of China’s economic rise.
From globalization to ‘de-risking’
A major discussion point during the event was the European Union’s evolving policy framework towards China. In recent years, the EU has adopted a ‘de-risking’ approach, aimed at reducing dependencies in strategic sectors while maintaining openness to trade and investment. This shift does not mean a full break in economic ties, but rather an adjustment of relations. European stakeholders are increasingly focused on ensuring fair competition, improving mutual access and addressing imbalances in market access.
Both sides also recognize the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation. Global challenges such as climate change, energy transition and technological innovation require joint efforts and shared solutions, making collaboration between China and Europe more relevant than ever.
New realities for Chinese companies in Belgium and Europe
Insights from industry experts highlighted how Chinese companies are adapting their strategies in response to changing market conditions. While exports from China to Europe remain strong, the traditional export-driven model is facing increasing pressure due to tariffs, regulatory requirements and evolving customer expectations.
As a result, a new trend is emerging: the shift toward localized operations in Europe. This ‘in the EU, for the EU’ approach involves establishing production facilities, supply chains and innovation centers within Europe itself. This strategy allows Chinese companies to better navigate regulatory frameworks, reduce trade-related costs and align more closely with European market needs. It also contributes to local employment, investment and technological development.
Opportunities in innovation and investment
Despite these challenges, Europe continues to offer strong opportunities for Chinese and international companies as well. The stable regulatory environment in Europe, its advanced infrastructure and high purchasing power make it an attractive destination for long-term investment.
In particular, Europe provides substantial incentives for innovation, including tax benefits, research funding programs and support for sustainable technologies. Governments across the EU actively promote research and development through tax credits, deductions and funding schemes aimed at supporting innovation and industrial transformation.
Bridging the future
The ‘Bridging Markets’ event underscored the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding and pragmatic cooperation in navigating an increasingly complex global environment. While challenges remain – from trade imbalances to regulatory hurdles – the fundamental drivers of China-Europe relations remain strong. Economic complementarities, shared interest in innovation and the need to address global challenges continue to provide a solid foundation for partnership.
As emphasized throughout the event, the future of Belgium-China business relations will not be defined by competition alone, but by the capacity to balance cooperation and resilience. Platforms such as the Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BCECC) play a crucial role in this process, fostering connections, sharing insights and creating opportunities for companies on both sides.