Dinner with DG Smit and EU Head of Delegation

2015-10-28 | Beijing

DG Smits demonstrated a strong understanding of the R&D environment in China in the context of business.  He noted that China’s spending on R&D now surpassed that of the EUs (2.9% of GDP for China versus 2% for the EU), but he question the quality of it. He expressed concern about the R&D framework for businesses in China and said his visit was to ensure that EU companies get access to funding programs just like the Chinese companies are benefitting from in the EU.

Mats Harborn gave an overview of the business environment in China and the paradigm shift currently taking place. Chinese people want a better quality life that includes better air quality, reliable food, and a safe environment.  He praised the recent communication of the EU’s trade policy. He talked about the importance of internet access for information and the complexity of value chain. For these things to flourish, China needs to be more open. Speaking on behalf of his own industry of mobility, he noted there are still huge systemic improvements that need to be made.

Ambassador Schweisgut recognized the work of the Chamber, in particular the Position Paper and it’s media coverage.

DG Smits emphasized that he wanted more out EU research cooperation with China. He noted that Horizon 2020 now requires countries like China to make contributions to the project. He said he would bring up the issues raised by participants with his counterparts in the days that follow.

Adam Dunnett, later on the margins, expressed his appreciation for DG Smit’s understanding of the realities in China and urged him to help ensure that any EU-China cooperation initiatives/projects would have a clear link to policies that would improve the business environment for EU companies.