Annual Report 2023
Published on March 22, 2024
2023 was another dynamic and challenging year, economically and geopolitically. Businesses faced headwinds due to slow economic growth and other challenges. Member companies “weathered the storm” with assistance from the German Chamber of Commerce in China as well as from AHK Greater China through a variety of events, services, publications and advocacy.
In 2023, German Minister for Foreign Affairs Annalena Baerbock visited China in April and in September, the German Embassy in China, the German Chamber of Commerce and the Shanghai Economic and Information Commission opened the German Pavilion at the 23rd China International Industry Fair. In November, Dr. Martin Wansleben, Chief Executive of the DIHK visited met with Chamber members, Chinese government officials and visited offices across the country. Additional, significant events of the year included a special general manager welcome reception for the new German Consul General in Shenyang, innovation events in China and Germany, the Sino-German Economic Forum in Shenzhen, and finally, the Xceleration (X-Days) Days in Shanghai. Also in 2023, the More Than A Market Awards attracted 83 applications from member companies a diverse range of cities, including Shanghai, Beijing, Dalian and Nanjing. Regular social events across the country, such as the Oktoberfest Night in Guangzhou, engaged people and helped keep our community connected. Finally, guests in Shanghai and Beijing rejoiced in the return of the annual German Ball.
Throughout the year, German Chamber members received valuable member-only insights and reports, helping them to adapt to the “New China Story.” Members and stakeholders across China and abroad enjoyed numerous print publications and regular social media updates and news. The 2022/2023 Business Confidence Survey featured insights from 566 member companies and highlighted the current business sentiment amongst German companies in China. Further, the From Bricks to Clicks report gave practical advice about how German brands can use e-commerce to thrive in China. 13 Night Talk videos, which included thought leaders from key German industries, were produced and distributed free of charge. Finally, the German Chamber continued to produce and publish the Ticker business journal, which featured many talented writers from our business community.
As Sino-German relations evolve, regardless of any ups and downs, we will continue to provide a platform for dialogue, partnership, representation, and international trade. We continue to serve the needs of our German Chamber members and to support innovation and growth underpinned by a fair business environment.