Recap [i10] How to Embrace China’s Innovation Drive as an International Company?
On April 10th, the Benelux Chamber of Commerce had the pleasure of co-organizing the “How to Embrace China’s Innovation Drive as an International Company?” event, a standout session of the i10 Innovation Festival 2025, organized by the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC) and the National Innovation Centre par Excellence (NICE).
The afternoon began with a brief and engaging tour of the NICE showroom, where guests had the chance to explore some of China’s most exciting innovation projects up close. Set against the backdrop of China’s rapidly expanding R&D landscape, where investment climbed to new highs in 2024, this session brought together a wide mix of international business leaders, researchers, academics, and innovators to explore how global companies can engage more meaningfully with China’s innovation ecosystem.
Opening remarks by Claire Urry, Chief Commercial Officer of the China-Britain Business Council and Chen Ning, Vice President of the National Innovation Centre par Excellence highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration and the need for shared innovation in today’s evolving global environment.
Throughout the afternoon, speakers shared compelling case studies and practical insights:
- Sun Yu, Chairman of Nanjing IMedVision, walked us through the journey of a UK university spin-out finding success in China’s healthtech sector.
- Professor Wei Guiyi, from Sussex AI Institute-Zhejiang Gongshang University, showcased how academic-industry partnerships are fueling advancements in AI.
- Jean Xu, VP of Nokia Shanghai Bell, offered firsthand insights into what it takes to build strong and sustainable innovation partnerships in China.
The highlight for many was the panel discussion, moderated by Kiran Patel Senior Director of the China-Britain Business Council, featuring voices from MathWorks China, Manchester Metropolitan Joint Institute, PwC Strategy&, Nokia Shanghai Bell, and OPmobility. The panel delved into key challenges and opportunities facing international companies in China, from navigating compliance and IP concerns to talent development and future tech trends.
As proud members of the i10 Innovation Network, which brings together the world’s top 10 innovation-driven economies, we were happy to be part of this meaningful exchange of ideas. It was a great opportunity to connect with peers, learn from experts, and reflect on how international companies can thrive in China’s innovation landscape.
A big thank you to CBBC, NICE, and all the speakers and participants for an inspiring afternoon. We look forward to continuing the conversation and deepening our role in this exciting global innovation journey.
About i10 INC
i10 Innovation Network in China (i10 INC) is a collaboration between chambers of commerce and government institutions in China representing the ten most innovative economies in the world as identified by UN's Global Innovation Index Ranking 2024: Switzerland, Sweden, USA, Singapore, United Kingdom, Republic of Korea, Finland, Netherlands, Germany and Denmark. The network was initiated and is facilitated by PwC.
The i10 network is committed to leveraging innovation to strengthen international connections and cooperation. It brings together peers, students, lawmakers, and young talents from both China and abroad, fostering meaningful partnerships and driving creative thinking.
