On March 17, 2026, the Association of Hidden Champions (VDHC) accepted an invitation from YU Yong, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, to attend the “Open Day” at the Chinese Consulate General in Düsseldorf.
A total of 25 members and associates of the VDHC followed the invitation—an important signal, as this marked the first time a German SME association had ever been received in this format. This created a rare and forward-looking opportunity for open, partnership-based dialogue on equal footing.
High-Level Program and Strong Impulses
The program included:
- a video address by Shen Haixiong, President and Editor-in-Chief of China Media Group
- a video address by Jens Dallendörfer, CEO AMEA of the Wilo Group
- welcome remarks by Rainer Schmeltzer, First Vice President of the State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia, and Julia Jacob, First Mayor of the City of Essen
- a presentation by Consul General YU Yong on the key outcomes of the current “Two Sessions” in China
A particular highlight was the presentation of innovative Chinese robotics technology: three highly agile robots—some of them even dancing—demonstrated impressively the country’s technological progress and dynamic pace of development.
Insights into Economy, Politics, and Cooperation
Against the backdrop of ongoing high-level dialogue between China and Germany, as well as the sessions of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, participants gained in-depth insights into China’s economic development and the prospects for industrial cooperation.
Key focus areas included:
- current economic developments in China
- prospects for Sino-German industrial cooperation
- perspectives on the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan
- practical, first-hand experience reports
Executive Dialogue and Industry Perspectives
Following the introductory session, the subsequent business dialogue featured:
- Florian Riedel, CEO of Hidden Champion KREBS & RIEDEL Schleifscheibenfabrik
- Roland W. Waniek, Managing Director of IKT – Institute for Underground Infrastructure
- Georg J. Türk, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Association of Hidden Champions
They engaged in discussion together with moderator Alexander Dergay and a highly engaged audience.
The VDHC’s participation in this high-level panel discussion underscores the growing importance of German SMEs in the international economic and policy dialogue.
Cultural Exchange and Personal Encounters
The event was rounded off by a diverse cultural program featuring dance and classical music, followed by a reception. In a relaxed atmosphere, participants had the opportunity for numerous personal conversations and to deepen existing relationships.
Members and associates of the VDHC were particularly impressed by the openness, friendliness, and hospitality of the hosts. The evening was characterized by constructive and trust-based exchange. The fact that an extended segment of the event was broadcast by CCTV further highlights the significance of this reception.
Conclusion
The invitation extended to the VDHC marks an important step in strengthening dialogue between German SMEs and China. It clearly demonstrates that Hidden Champions are valued partners in the international arena—and a key component of future industrial cooperation.
