Amid rapid technological change and evolving global markets, companies are redefining how they grow in China and beyond. The Summer 2026 issue of DE Perspectives, themed “Path to Grow,” explores the strategies shaping this journey—from local innovation and agile operations to talent development, trusted partnerships, and long-term investment.
Merck illustrates this shift from market presence to full-value-chain engagement. Mr. Rogier Janssens, President of Merck China, describes the company’s evolution from introducing global innovation to “co-creating innovations in China, for China, and for the world.” Through local R&D, manufacturing, supply-chain networks, and innovation partnerships, Merck sees China as a growth engine, innovation accelerator, and vital link in global resilience.
For Covestro, 25 years in China have transformed Shanghai from a production base into a strategic center for global innovation. Ms. Holly Lei, President of Covestro China, emphasizes that China is “not just our largest single market — it is one of the most important places where we develop what comes next.” With its integrated production site and open innovation partnerships, Covestro demonstrates how local insight and global expertise can advance sustainable materials and circular solutions.
Bosch shows that global competitiveness also begins with people. Through the China-Germany Youth Interns Exchange Programme implemented by AHK Greater China, Bosch Global Service APAC brings German interns to China to build cross-cultural understanding, resilience, and familiarity with China’s fast-paced business environment. By bringing this firsthand experience of China’s speed and innovation into its global talent network, Bosch aims to develop leaders who can connect markets, cultures, and operations across borders.
For German SMEs, local presence is increasingly essential. Responding to faster and more agile local competitors, KIST + ESCHERICH opened its Chinese subsidiary, Ruijie Industrial Technology (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., to move closer to customers and combine German engineering with local development, sourcing, manufacturing, and customer support. Ms. Noelle Kist, General Manager of the Chinese subsidiary, summarizes the challenge clearly: “Local players are often ahead in terms of speed and agility.” The company’s response is to deliver quality, reliability, and long-term support with greater local responsiveness.
KOSATEC offers another example of how firsthand exchange can drive transformation. Led by Founder and CEO Mr. Andreas Sander, a delegation of 22 members of the company’s executive management visited Shenzhen to explore China’s advances in robotics, AI, and automation, while engaging with potential partners. For Mr. Sander, China is not merely a sourcing market, but a source of knowledge, inspiration, and future collaboration.
In healthcare, Jiahui Health highlights China’s growing role as a global innovation contributor. Dr. John K. Hsiang, Chairman of Jiahui Health Executive Committee, explores how international standards, local understanding, and cross-border collaboration can improve patient care. As China advances in areas such as cell therapy, precision oncology, and AI, he notes: “More and more people are beginning to see the real China and gain a better understanding of what it is actually like, rather than relying on previous perceptions."