Economics and business
Cultural exchange has long been central to the VNC. However, increasing economic interdependence coupled with changing geopolitical realities call for a more active approach to economic relations between the Netherlands and China.
The VNC focuses on mediating between Chinese and Dutch parties that aim to strengthen economic ties and stimulate mutual economic growth.
But the VNC does more. The association actively strengthens its relations with other parties at the interface of Dutch and Chinese business interests, such as with economic development teams of embassies and ministries in the Netherlands and abroad, with industry or employer organizations and other parties that also focus on promoting economic relations between the Netherlands and China. These can be Dutch, Chinese but also other international organizations.
Furthermore, we see the goal of spreading knowledge about China’s economy and its business community.
If you have an interesting economy-related or business topic or event, please contact us at info@vnc-china.nl
ChinaNow+
New Procurement Rules Offer New Opportunities
By Richard van Ostende The introduction of uniform national standards for ‘domestic products’ within Chinese government procurement as of January 1, 2026 marks an significant policy shift for foreign companies operating in China. With the new framework, the Chinese government creates greater clarity regarding the criteria used to classify products
VNC Engaged in Talks with the House of Representatives on China Knowledge Agenda
On behalf of the Netherlands China Association (VNC), Chair Monique Knapen, alongside VNC members Robert van Kan and Frank Yang, recently held talks with members of the House of Representatives involved in the China committee within the standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. Through these discussions, the VNC aims to contribute
China Café South: Robots Uncovered – What’s Real, What’s Hype in Europe and China?
Where does robotics really stand today? Which applications are already commercially relevant and: where are expectations perhaps still a bit far ahead of reality? These questions and more were central to the China Café South, in Eindhoven. The evening brought together two complementary perspectives. Jos Elfring, assistant professor of Robotics
The Invisible Planner: Is TikTok Mapping the Future of Our Cities?
by Vici Gao In a world of social media, who decides which cities get seen? How does a city or region put itself on the map? Until recently, it was the work of tourism boards or a unique landmark. Today, individual influencers can make a location trend in the blink
China Café: Investing in China, Opportunities or Risks?
During the China Café on 2 March in Utrecht, a highly topical and much-debated theme took center stage: investing in China. The evening was opened with warm wishes to the audience for the start of the new Year of the Fire Horse, after which the discussion shifted to the key
China’s economic reorientation under the 15th Five-Year Plan
By Nout Wellink Introduction The recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party for the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026 – 2030) are ambitious and cover a wide area. Their ultimate relevance will depend on implementation rather than on formulated objectives, many of which – such as
European Union, conclude a trade agreement with China!
In the language of businessman Trump By Jack Gerats Now that the term ‘Pax Americana’ does not seem to be in the dictionary of current US President Donald Trump and China’s global influence is increasing, a new European strategy is urgently needed, argues economist Jack Gerats. For example, by initiating
China Café: A closer look at the Nexperia case – governance, geopolitics and how to move forward with the European semiconductor strategy
The edition of the China Café of 15 December 2025, moderated by Cindy Shao and presented by Lianne Baaij, brought rare clarity to one of the most complicated and politically charged business files in the Netherlands: the Nexperia affair. In conversation with Charles Smit, former General Counsel and Head of
Cyber fraud: the Chinese mafia moves with the times
By Jan van der Putten Worldwide, digital scammers are taking billions of euros out of their victims’ pockets. However, these perpetrators work as slaves for the bosses of small and large gangs. The largest gangs come from China. Dubious record In one area after another, the People’s Republic of China
