"I think the Canton Fair is a very famous and well-established tradition in Guangdong. It has for many years been Guangdong's window to the world, where companies from abroad have been able to come here and see all the great things that China is able to produce," Jens Eskelund, President of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, shared his insights on the Canton Fair in a recent interview with GDToday.
"You walk the streets, and you hear voices from all over the world—Europe, South America, Africa, the Middle East. It's really exciting to be here," he said. "You really feel that it makes Guangzhou more international."
Guangdong plays pivotal role in China's integration with global economy
Jens has been in China for 26 years and has visited Guangdong more than 50 times. He commented on the exciting development of the province, noting its pivotal role in China's integration with the global economy.
"I think Guangdong, and in particular the Pearl River Delta, has gone through a very exciting development. It was here where the reform and opening up really started, and where China's integration with the global economy and with global markets really began. So I think in that respect, this region has always been a leader in terms of engaging with the world," he said.
Jens also pointed out the evolution of the Pearl River Delta's production capabilities, from simple products to more sophisticated and leading products. "Guangdong is also home to world-leading companies such as BYD and DJI," he noted.
European firms see long-term potential in the Chinese market
When asked about China's recent measures to further open up, Jens emphasized their significance. "We think it's very important that the Chinese government continue to focus on the regulations and making it easier for Chinese and foreign companies to do business in China," he said.
Jens highlighted the deep integration of European companies' supply chains with Chinese supply chains. "Many European companies, in particular, within the manufacturing sector, have supply chains that are deeply embedded in China," he said. "When you build sophisticated supply chains and want to improve your competitiveness, you need to find the suppliers that deliver the best product at the lowest price. And for many of our members, that's exactly China."
Jens further emphasized the changing landscape of Chinese consumer products. "I think increasingly, European consumers are looking for cutting-edge electronics. And China is really becoming a leader in the development and innovation within the consumer product space," Jens said.
Looking ahead, Jens still expressed optimism about the potential of the Chinese market for European companies. "I think in the long term, our members can see the potential in China. Our members are highly committed to the Chinese market. We don't see any of our members leaving China."
Reporter | Abby
Video | Wingheng
Poster | Jocelyn
Editor | Nan, James
