Nanjing and Xi'an in Focus at CIIE 2026
On November 6, 2026, Antoine Bruneel, President of the Benelux Chamber of Commerce, delivered speeches at two investment promotion conferences in Shanghai, held in connection with the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE). The events brought together government representatives, business leaders and international stakeholders to discuss industrial development and investment opportunities in Nanjing's Yuhuatai District and Xi'an's Chanba International Port.
While both conferences focused on international investment, they highlighted different regional strengths and potential areas of collaboration with the Benelux countries.
Nanjing's Yuhuatai District: Technology and Industrial Innovation
At the 2026 Nanjing Yuhuatai District China-Foreign Inward-Outbound Investment Promotion Conference, Antoine Bruneel spoke about industrial development in the European Union and the potential for collaboration with Yuhuatai's growing technology sector.
Yuhuatai has established itself as a major software and innovation hub, with particular strengths in artificial intelligence, industrial software and intelligent manufacturing. These sectors offer opportunities to connect local expertise with the Benelux countries' experience in advanced technologies, industrial applications and semiconductor development.
In his presentation, Antoine identified several practical areas for collaboration, including exchanges between companies working in AI and industrial software, business visits and matchmaking, and support for Chinese enterprises exploring European markets.
He also outlined how the Chamber can help facilitate these exchanges by introducing relevant partners, sharing market insights and supporting companies interested in cross-border projects.
Xi'an's Chanba International Port: Life Sciences and Research
At the 2026 Xi'an Chanba International Port Investment Environment Promotion Conference, discussions turned to the region's investment environment and its potential for international partnerships.
During his speech, Antoine highlighted the Benelux countries' established strengths in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology and scientific research. He also recognized Xi'an's research capabilities, industrial development and innovation potential as a basis for closer engagement.
With strong research institutions and growing industrial capabilities, Xi'an offers possibilities for collaboration between companies, universities and research organizations. Such exchanges could support technological development, knowledge sharing and business expansion in both directions.
Antoine emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for Benelux businesses interested in the Chinese market, while also encouraging Chinese companies to explore partnerships and investment possibilities in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Turning Regional Strengths into Practical Collaboration
The two conferences illustrated the range of industries in which Chinese regions and Benelux businesses can find common ground. Yuhuatai's technology-driven economy and Xi'an's research and industrial capabilities offer different starting points for international engagement.
For the Benelux Chamber of Commerce, these exchanges provide an opportunity to better understand regional developments, identify complementary expertise and facilitate introductions between potential partners.
By maintaining dialogue with regional authorities and business communities, the Chamber aims to help translate shared interests into practical cooperation and long-term business relationships.
