Dear Members and Friends

The warm weather has gone, and many of us have taken the warm clothes out of the wardrobe. With fall also come thoughts about what the coming winter will bring for Switzerland and Europe. One thing is clear: the pandemic will continue to be a major affair. Interesting news from the southern hemisphere, specifically from Australia, state that this year’s winter flu was much less of an issue than in previous years. Due to social distancing and all other measures taken to fight the pandemic, the region observed fewer cases of influenza during its winter months. That is a rather encouraging outlook for Switzerland, and if the discipline demonstrated in 2020 continues – or even increases –, there is hope that we will master future challenges.

There are also challenges of how to deal with the travel restrictions in the business world. Technology is a great enabler, but it cannot solve everything.  Human interactions are crucial. Some business owners and senior management members I have spoken to are eager to visit their far-flung clients and team members. Therefore, we have heard with relief, that some of the travel restrictions to China have been lifted, however, only if you are in possession of a residence permit. Short term travels to China are still not in reach.

The economy is further recovering, bright spots are step-by-step outshining dark areas. The adjustments made by business leaders in Q2 and Q3 show first encouraging results around the globe.

The election year in the U.S. will come to its peak soon, and with that, headline-grabbing actions will most likely decrease. In the past few months, the globally dominant players have made their positions towards each other clear, the EU–China summit took place merely two weeks ago. It is now time to start – or rather continue – with a constructive dialogue to address the areas where common interests are identified, and progress could be made.

Now to the SCCC news: we will hold our AGM on October 29, 2020 at the Mascotte, Theaterstrasse 10, in Zurich. We have developed a security and social distancing concept according to the cantonal and federal guidelines. The number of seats is limited – please make your reservation early. There is also enough space and time to network; we would like to provide you with the opportunity to spend a few hours with like-minded people and colleagues.

Our 40-year anniversary book comes along nicely. Thank you for all your contributions! There is also the opportunity to participate in the festivities by creating anniversary videos, and you can share how you feel about 40 years of SCCC.

Please check our website to see how you can create your own video, as well as for updates on topical webinars. If you have questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us via email.

We are looking forward to seeing you at webinars and at the AGM – and please stay healthy.

With best regards,

Felix Sutter

If you want to be part of the video interviews, to talk a bit about your company, experience with China and the SCCC, drop a message at info@sccc.ch.

We look forward to welcoming our dear members at our office for the video interviews!

The Chinese border has reopened on September 28th, 2020 to foreign travelers holding valid residence permits for work, personal matters or reunion. If the residence permit expired after March 28th, 2020, the holder may apply for a visa by presenting the expired residence permit to the responsible Chinese Embassy or Consulate.

Click here to read the official statement of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Fǔ kuài bú pà mù chái yìng

A talented person is not afraid of a difficult task.