Workshop on China's Healthcare Sector, Shanghai

On May 19, 2025, the China-Italy Chamber of Commerce (CICC), together with its Healthcare Working Group (HCWG), the EU SME Centre and the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China successfully organized the workshop “China's Healthcare Sector”. The event was held at the European Chamber’s Shanghai office, with a hybrid format that enabled both in-person and online participation via Zoom.

With 130 participants—30 physically present and 100 attending virtually—the workshop served as a dynamic platform to explore key topics related to the development and opportunities within China’s healthcare landscape. The discussions highlighted the important role that European SMEs play in this industry and the potential they have, as well as how regulations, procurement conditions, state-led initiatives and other factors are shaping market access in practice.

The workshop opened with welcoming remarks from Filippo Pallaroni, Training Centre Coordinator at the EU SME Centre, setting the tone for a rich dialogue and knowledge-sharing day. Following the introduction, Jens Ewert, National Leader Life Science Healthcare Industry at Deloitte, offered a comprehensive overview of China’s healthcare sector, addressing current trends and areas of innovation that are reshaping the industry. Hamish King, CEO at Cisema, followed with a detailed presentation focused on medical device registration procedures, guiding the audience through the complex regulatory environment for foreign companies looking to enter the Chinese market. The event's second half featured an engaging panel discussion centred on market access for European SMEs operating in the healthcare sector. Moderated by Valtero Canepa, General Manager of Bracco Sine Pharmaceutical Shanghai, the panel included interventions from Jin Tao Yu, Sales Director Greater China at Copan Medical Shanghai, and once again, Hamish King. Together, they offered first-hand perspectives on the opportunities and challenges faced by European businesses. The panel also touched upon government-led healthcare initiatives and how foreign SMEs can align with these to gain a competitive edge.

Participants appreciated the practical, experience-based insights shared by the speakers. The workshop also served as a valuable networking forum, encouraging dialogue that could translate into future scientific and commercial collaborations.  

We extend our sincere thanks to the EU SME Centre, the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, our distinguished speakers, and all attendees who contributed to the success of this informative and collaborative event.

As always, the China-Italy Chamber of Commerce continues to support Italian companies with targeted events that not only promote Italian excellence, but also provide opportunities for updates, networking, and strengthening relationships with local authorities, supporting Italian businesses in their growth and success in the Chinese market.