Understanding China Conference in Brussels Nov 18

The Understanding China Conference will return to Brussels and online on Wednesday, 18 November 2026. Organized by the EU SME Centre, the annual event brings together policymakers from EU institutions, analysts, business leaders and industry experts to examine the latest developments in EU–China relations and the business environment for European SMEs.

The conference will explore how changes in policy, market trends and broader economic dynamics affect European businesses operating in or seeking to enter the Chinese market. The program will cover EU–China relations, China's economic policy and business environment, business exchanges, partnerships and contracts, e-commerce platforms and costs, as well as marketing and communication strategies for the Chinese market.

The agenda includes opening remarks, six thematic sessions and networking opportunities, concluding with a networking cocktail from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Brussels time). The event will be held in a hybrid format, with in-person attendance at the Renaissance Brussels Hotel and online livestreaming.

Participation is free of charge and open to stakeholders of the EU SME Centre from all EU Member States and countries participating in the Single Market Program. Priority for in-person attendance will be given to partner organisations of the EU SME Centre and intermediary organisations, including government agencies, industry associations, business support organisations, trade promotion organisations, chambers of commerce and clusters.

Registration is available here. All sessions will be conducted in English. For further information, contact Davide Orlandi, EU Partnerships Manager, at davide.orlandi@eusmecentre.org.cn.

Since 2011, the Understanding China Conference has provided a platform for European stakeholders to discuss the latest developments and trends in China and assess their potential impact on European small and medium-sized enterprises.