What the European Paradox explains, is how the continent lacks the conditions to turn inventions into globally competitive industries at sufficient speed and scale. For many companies, solving that problem could mean looking beyond Europe. But doing so without losing long-term strategic value requires a smart approach.
The European Paradox: scaling your innovation without losing your market read more
China is rapidly securing a leading position in key tech sectors, from batteries and advanced manufacturing to robotics, MedTech and novel foods. Aggressive state support combined with intense domestic competition enables Chinese firms to scale, iterate, and commercialise faster than many Western counterparts. In several of these sectors, Chinese competitors are already shaping global cost structures, standards, and innovation cycles. Without decisive action, European startups and scaleups risk falling behind. For many tech founders, China
Sometimes, we witness the moment that a client suddenly sees it: their own China blind spot. Our China Strategy Framework helps European companies find their own blind spots, related to Greater China and define actions to confront their China challenge.
In our work with European companies, we still see many treating China as an “option” — or deliberately avoiding it altogether. That is a strategic blind spot in their corporate strategy. Viewed from a business perspective, in almost every technology-driven sector — from mobility to energy, from digitalisation to AI — China is present on one of three levels: as a competitor, as a partner, or as a supplier.
Why China belongs in every corporate strategy – even if you’re not active there read more
The China Inroads team visits a whole variety of companies. Despite this wide range of business types, we see many similarities in China-related business operations and the challenges our clients face. One issue nearly every organisation struggles with is stakeholder management, a topic that is more relevant than ever in today’s geopolitical landscape.
Stakeholder Management across cultures and continents read more
If you listen only to the sceptics, the Chinese market is losing its shine. Trade barriers, reputation damage, and supply chain disruptions are frequently shouted from the front pages. However, if you look beyond the headlines, you will see that China’s ‘emerging’ industries are developing at a promising pace.
From avoiding risks to seizing opportunities read more
In today’s interconnected world, understanding cultural differences in business is crucial to achieving success across borders. Our director Valérie Hoeks is well-versed in managing cross-border business relations between Europe and China. In her TEDx talk, she shares her knowledge about cultural differences in business and shows her experience as a Keynote Speaker.
Cultural differences in business read more
Understanding cultural differences in business through a Chinese-German partnership. Explore how emotions and communication impact international success.
Feelings vs. Facts: Understanding Business Culture read more
Explore the dynamics of Chinese-European business negotiations, focusing on cultural differences in communication, strategy, and decision-making.
Alibaba & the Dutch – Chinese tactics behind the scenes read more
