Dear Members and Friends

The month of June is traditionally when we hold our AGM to review last year's activities and plan for the coming years. In 2023, this tradition continues, but with a significant difference – we are emerging from the pandemic. We need to understand the changes that have occurred and determine which pandemic-related measures should be retained and which can be discarded. The world has changed, and so have the needs of our members and stakeholders.

In this regard, SCCC is no different from any other organization, whether it is a SME or a large multinational firm. Periodically, we must take stock and assess our position concerning stakeholders, partners, market players, and our human resources. Does our leadership address the upcoming challenges? Is it capable of solving problems on its own, or does it require external resources?

This process is part of good governance and prudent risk management. Speaking of risks, they have changed in the past few months and continue to evolve, creating a complex and challenging environment for all those dealing with the Chinese economy and marketplace. Therefore, we recommend a rigorous risk management approach and timely reviews of risk profile, exposure, and likelihood. Only then can informed decisions be made regarding investments and other strategic options for your organization. For example, if it is now the time to send expats back to China, what professional experience and profile should these individuals have, and what roles would they play in China?

Many of you have recently had meetings with Chinese government officials or representatives of economic/industrial parks, as several Chinese delegations have visited Switzerland. During these meetings, you have been presented with various service offerings and conditions that aim to make your business endeavors predictable and profitable. You may consider planning a trip to China before or during the summer break to verify the economic parameters and indicators in your industry.

All these reasons underscore the importance of assessing your position. However, are you aware that there are no summer holidays in China? Upon your return from the summer break, the situation may have changed once again. How will you stay informed and address a situation that requires immediate attention and potentially corrective actions?

We look forward to discussing all the above topics at the AGM on June 14, where we will have ample time and space for networking. If you haven't signed up yet, please use this LINK.

Last but not least, the annual Swiss Business in China survey has just been published – it is the first one after the pandemic measures in China have been lifted. Overall, the Swiss business community has regained their confidence in China. Download HERE the full report and gain further insights into the Swiss Chinese companies and their strategies for entering the Chinese market.

We wish you a productive June and hope that your business plans can be realized in line with your risk appetite. The next newsletter will be issued in early July.

Kind regards

Jiā hé wàn shì xīnɡ.

If a family is harmonious, everything will go well.