German Hidden Champions Eye Deeper Cooperation with Chinese Mainland

In the heart of Beijing, more than 600 industry leaders gathered for the 2025 China-Germany Hidden Champions Forum, spotlighting Europe’s best-kept secrets in niche markets. At the center of the conversation: how German hidden champions are aiming for deeper collaboration with the Chinese mainland market.

Termed “hidden champions,” these small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) command global leadership in specialized fields yet remain largely unknown outside their niches. Out of 2,734 such firms worldwide, Europe boasts the majority, with Germany alone accounting for over 1,300 trailblazers.

This year’s forum marked a significant leap in scale. After debuting in the Chinese mainland last year with just 60 German firms, the 2025 event saw a delegation of 150 companies—more than double—led by Walter Doring, chairman of the Senate of Economy Europe. “I think this shows everything,” he remarked, underscoring the forum’s rapid growth.

Participants explored opportunities across high-end manufacturing, green technology and digital innovation, from precision engineering parts to renewable energy systems. With the Chinese mainland market hungry for specialized solutions, these SMEs see a path to expand their global footprint and forge lasting partnerships.

Beyond trade, delegates discussed joint research and development projects, talent exchanges and local production hubs. By combining Europe’s expertise in customization with the Chinese mainland’s vast market and manufacturing capacity, both sides aim to accelerate innovation and sustainable growth.

For entrepreneurs, investors and policy makers eyeing the pulse of global business, the Hidden Champions Forum offers a glimpse into the future of cross-border collaboration. As new sectors emerge and supply chains evolve, German SMEs are betting that co-creation with the Chinese mainland will be a game changer.

With momentum building, expectations are high for the next summit. If the 2025 forum is any indication, the era of deepened cooperation between German hidden champions and the Chinese mainland market is just beginning—and the world will be watching.

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German hidden champions eye deeper cooperation with China

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