“The European Chamber listens to each member’s issues and is able to summarise the topics and support us by talking with the government.”

Vincent Bury, Chair, European Chamber Manufacturing Forum; CEO, CNIM Foshan

What value has the European Chamber brought to you/your company/your industry?

I think the European Chamber is really vibrant and focusses on different business sectors, including industrial activities. So, as an industrial company, that’s a big added value; we can share experiences, talk about manufacturing. The European Chamber listens to each member’s issues and is able to summarise the topics and support us by talking with the government. Then, with factory visits for example, it’s also a good opportunity to advertise the company in addition to sharing experiences and know-how.

Finally, the European Chamber represents all of European countries in my understanding, so it is stronger than individual national chambers of commerce.

What role do you expect the European Chamber to take in the next 20 years?

20 years! That’s quite a long time. Our business models change so fast now. Anyway, I hope that we will be stronger together and convince the Chinese Government and large contractors that we should develop win-win partnerships, and focus on local markets as well as international one.

In this case, the European Chamber should play a key role, supporting European companies’ business in China with its significant weight.

The European Chamber should also play a role as a platform for European companies to exchange and share experiences, increasing each other’s know-how and business understanding in China.

Finally, the European Chamber should also develop a business platform for European companies to share call for tenders, find partners and be stronger to fight for a share of the Chinese market.

Vincent Bury, Chair, European Chamber Manufacturing Forum; CEO, CNIM Foshan