#China #CEEC #Cangzhou #Cangzhou Forum #SME Cooperation

Exploring New Horizons: The 7th China-CEEC SME Forum

On October 26 and 27, 2026, the 7th China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) SME Cooperation Forum took place in Cangzhou, Hebei Province, marking a pivotal moment in enhancing business relationships between China and Central and Eastern Europe. This significant event was held concurrently with the 70th anniversary of the China-Czechoslovakia Friendship Farm, reflecting on long-lasting bonds and commitments to future collaboration.

A Platform for Collaboration

The forum, themed "Enhancing Mutual Cooperation, Embracing a Shared Future", was co-hosted by the Cangzhou Municipal People's Government, the Hebei Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, and the China Centre for the Development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The focus was not only on trade but on building ecosystems that enhance mutual growth, with several key initiatives outlined during the conference.

One of the pivotal announcements at the forum was Hebei Province’s plan to create a joint artificial intelligence service ecosystem under the initiative named "Wan-fan Jün-chai". This reflects a commitment to leverage AI technologies to enhance service delivery across sectors. Furthermore, discussions included establishing a framework for the logistical cooperation between China and CEEC, ensuring that goods flow more seamlessly between regions.

Strategic Partnerships and Networking

Among the highlights was the launch of the Cangzhou Chamber of Commerce for Economic and Trade Cooperation with Central and Eastern Europe. This entity aims to facilitate exchanges and strategic partnerships aimed at mutual benefits. Networking sessions were instrumental in promoting direct dialogues, enabling businesses from both regions to identify partnership potentials. Eight parallel events, including conferences focused on cross-border networking and specialized gatherings centered on energy equipment and sustainable practices, provided rich opportunities for attendees.

Olivier Salzgeber, Vice President of Cargill Asia Pacific, shared that the forum helped him connect with potential partners and noted Cangzhou’s efforts in circular development within green chemistry. Cargill has invested around $500 million in the Hebei Jia-chao project, focusing on grains and oilseeds at the Huanghua Port. The logistical advantages offered by port access and combined transport modes were highlighted as vital factors in reducing operational costs and expanding business footprints.

Wang Yunhong, President of IBIH Aerogel, remarked that the business matchmaking conference clarified pathways to the CEEC markets, facilitating direct negotiations with regional enterprises. Yan Chaoyi, CEO of Czech-Sino Shark (Cangzhou) Aircraft Manufacturing, mentioned that the forum served as a platform to showcase their projects and engage in international contracting and technical collaboration discussions.

As both regions look toward future cooperation, 2027 marks the 15th anniversary of partnership efforts between China and CEEC, reinforcing commitments to mutual growth. Li Jian, General Director of the European Affairs Department at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed China’s readiness to deepen cooperation with CEE countries, promoting joint development and mutually beneficial outcomes while enriching the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU.

Looking Forward

The 7th China-CEEC SME Forum has undoubtedly opened new doors for collaboration, fostering initiatives that seek to bridge gaps between the markets. The event underscored the potential for enhanced business relationships, encouraging an environment ripe for innovation, investment, and shared growth. As these nations continue to collaborate, the path ahead appears promising, poised to deliver significant economic benefits to all parties involved.