2025 AGM Report: Benelux Chamber of Commerce East China Chapter’s Progress and Outlook
On June 4th, 2025, the Benelux Chamber of Commerce East China Chapter convened its Annual General Meeting at the Grant Thornton Shanghai office. The event brought together members, and leadership to review the Chamber’s performance in 2024, evaluate its progress during the first half of 2025, and outline its strategic direction for the remainder of the year. The Chamber also announced a significant milestone: the addition of its 200th member, underscoring its continued growth and relevance within the international business community in China.
In 2024, the Chamber significantly expanded its operations, increasing the number of events from 56 in 2023 to 76 in 2024. Attendance also rose, with an average of 50 participants per event compared to 35 the previous year. Events ranged from content-driven sessions and community gatherings to collaborative engagements and China-specific programming. The Formula 1 event emerged as one of the year’s most prominent public-facing initiatives, drawing over 600 attendees. Overall event satisfaction remained high, with an average score of 4.25 out of 5.
One of the most notable developments in 2024 was the formal launch of the Chamber’s Industry Practice Groups (IPGs), which aim to foster sector-specific dialogue and professional exchange. The Design & Construction IPG and the Logistics & Marine IPG were both activated and held multiple events, successfully creating new opportunities for engagement within their respective industries. In addition to these programmatic developments, the Chamber also invested in its long-term capacity by relocating to a new office on Xiangyang North Road and hiring an additional full-time employee to support its expanding operations.
In the first half of 2025, the Chamber maintained its momentum. A total of 39 events were organized between January and May, reflecting a diverse portfolio that included content seminars, community events, collaborative sessions, China-focused activities, and two IPG meetings. Event satisfaction remained strong, with an average participant rating of 4.28.
The Chamber’s Intern2China program also continued to gain traction in 2025. By mid-year, 26 participants had joined the initiative, representing seven nationalities and 20 Benelux universities. Each participant completed a Mandarin and culture training course at East China Normal University before beginning internships arranged through the Chamber’s corporate network. Feedback has remained positive, with participants citing both professional development and strong logistical support.
The IPG framework progressed further in 2025 with the official launch of the Finance IPG. The Logistics & Marine IPGcontinued its activities following a successful 2024, while preparations are underway to launch the Design & Construction, Human Resources, and ESG groups in the coming months. These developments reflect the Chamber’s ongoing effort to deepen engagement by providing targeted, sector-specific programming for its members.
From a financial perspective, the Chamber reported strong performance in the first half of the year. Membership income was 24 percent above budget by May. Several revenue-generating delegations were also confirmed, including projects focused on the Huangpu district and the medical sector, with profits from these engagements expected to be reflected in the third quarter.
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025, the Chamber is focused on delivering a number of strategic initiatives. The Annual Gala and Best of Benelux will be combined into a single event, scheduled for November 28. Further details will be released later in June. The Chamber will also host its annual Career Fair in October, which remains a key platform for connecting member companies with young professionals, alumni, and students.
Another major development is the upcoming launch of the Benelux House, a new flexible workspace concept designed to support members with office needs. The Chamber will also continue to strengthen its IPG structure, with all groups either launching or expanding their activity in the second half of the year. Factory visits to member sites outside Shanghai will enhance regional engagement, while the alumni programs will serve two functions: maintaining direct ties with alumni from Benelux universities and supporting local alumni chapters in organizing networking events.
The AGM also marked a moment of recognition and transition for several outgoing members of the Board, Executive Committee, and Advisory Board. The Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to H.E. Marjo Crompvoets, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Shanghai, who will be concluding her posting this year. As a key advisor to the Board, her guidance and unwavering support have played a vital role in strengthening Dutch-Benelux business ties in East China.
Among the Executive Committee, Bas Kreukniet stepped down as President after years of dedicated service. His tenure was marked by consistent growth, increased visibility of the Chamber, and strategic development across programs and partnerships. While he will continue serving on the Board, his departure from the presidency closes a defining chapter in the Chamber’s leadership. Tom Chen, who served as Treasurer, also completed his term on the Executive Committee and will remain involved as a Board member, continuing to advise on financial matters.
The Chamber also thanks the following resigning board members for their service: Susan Yang, Orlando Ortego, and Jiali Xu (Joyce). Their contributions to the Chamber's mission, governance, and events have been appreciated by both colleagues and the broader membership. The Chamber expresses its gratitude to all outgoing members for their commitment and continued support.
Leadership engagement for the 2025–2026 term was a central theme of the AGM, with all Executive Committee and Board members articulating clear commitments.
Chairman Karel Eloot committed to supporting the onboarding of the new President while enhancing collaboration between China’s three Benelux chapters. Incoming President Victor Bekink pledged to maintain close contact with members and ensure continuity. New Treasurer Kristien Loontjens emphasized financial transparency and process optimization. Annie Tao, continuing as Secretary, reaffirmed her support for the Chamber team and for strategic initiatives such as Intern2China.
Returning ExCom members Lucy Lei and Jacquelien Postigo Brussee committed to continued involvement in strategic decision-making, marketing oversight, and IPG development. Former President Bas Kreukniet, now continuing as a board member, committed to supporting the Chamber's transition in leadership, drawing on his nine years of experience to advise on strategic initiatives and membership development, particularly for Dutch companies.
Board members Tom Chen, Hansje van den Noort, Thomas Slaets, and Pieter de Waart pledged active participation in events, alumni support, and strategic contributions. Billy Ma expressed his intent to promote the Chamber’s values and support cross-chapter collaboration. Raoul Schweicher focused on reinforcing ties with Beijing and PRD, while Maximilien Schréder, Michiel Roosjen, Dieter Verstreken, and Jesse Kamps committed to contributing their industry expertise, networks, and sponsorship support.
Additional members such as Robert Chen, Arent Naber, Kurt Van Rysselberge, David Xu and Jan Van Der Borght committed to supporting financial services, IPGs, alumni relations, government engagement, and sector representation. Legal representative Philippe Snel humorously committed to continuing his service until a replacement is identified, while Wouter Peeters reaffirmed his long-standing support through event participation and brand partnership.
Together, the Board and Executive Committee members expressed a unified focus on strengthening governance, improving coordination, and delivering impactful services and programming to the Benelux business community across China.
Conclusion
The Benelux Chamber has entered the second half of 2025 with a clear strategy, strong financial performance, and the full backing of a committed leadership team. With a growing member base, expanding programs, and active governance, the Chamber remains well-positioned to deliver value to its stakeholders and advance Benelux-China business relations.