Ningbo, a bustling port city in eastern China, is becoming a beacon of innovation and collaboration between China and Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. As the 4th China-CEEC Expo kicks off from May 22 to 25, the city shines a spotlight on cutting-edge technologies and celebrates 13 years of fruitful cooperation.
A Hub of Innovation
Back in 2018, Ningbo launched its ambitious “Science and Technology Innovation 2025” plan. Aimed at boosting the city’s competitive edge in technology and driving high-quality development, the initiative focuses on leading industries like new energy vehicles and graphene. This forward-thinking approach has attracted national-level platforms and top-tier talent to the city.
Building Bridges with CEE Countries
The China-CEEC Industrial Park officially opened in Ningbo on June 10, 2020. By August 2024, the number of two-way investment projects between Ningbo and CEE countries reached an impressive 196. Ningbo’s investments abroad mainly target its strong suits: auto parts and high-end equipment manufacturing.
Driving into the Future
Today, Ningbo is accelerating its transformation into a trillion-yuan “New Energy Vehicle Hub.” This shift offers vast opportunities for cooperation with CEE nations known for their automotive industries. For instance, Zhenyu Technology, a Ningbo-based auto parts manufacturer and supplier to battery giant CATL, announced plans in 2023 to build a production base in Hungary. They’re attracted by the region’s strong industrial ecosystem, friendly policies, and skilled workforce.
Joyson Electronics, another Ningbo powerhouse, has established 10 factories across six CEE countries, including Romania, Hungary, and Poland. Employing over 10,000 local staff, they’re a shining example of successful international collaboration.
Meanwhile, Geely Auto, a leading car manufacturer from nearby Hangzhou, partnered with Grand Automotive in Hungary to export its Geometry C electric vehicles to Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. This move marks Geely’s entry into the European Union market and opens doors for many Ningbo-based suppliers, strengthening ties along the automotive supply chain.
Spotlight on Slovakia
Slovakia, one of the guest countries of honor at this year’s expo, ranks among the world’s top nations in per capita car production. With a solid industrial base in aluminum die-casting, injection molding, and bearings, it’s an ideal partner for Ningbo’s emerging automakers like Zeekr, who are looking to source components locally in Europe.
Welcoming CEE Enterprises to Ningbo
CEE companies are also eyeing opportunities in Ningbo. In 2023, Ningbo Bulgarhua Biomaterials Co., Ltd., a Bulgarian-owned project, set up shop in the China-CEEC Industrial Park. Desislav, the project leader specializing in biodegradable materials, was drawn to Ningbo’s favorable business environment and the chance to integrate within its vast manufacturing landscape.
Last October, VR Park—the largest virtual reality theme park in CEE—partnered with the Ningbo Science Exploration Center to open a new venue. During its soft opening over the National Day holiday, the park attracted more than 1,500 visitors in just three days, showcasing the excitement surrounding cross-cultural tech experiences.
A New Chapter of Collaboration
The relationship between Ningbo and CEE countries has evolved from simple trade transactions to a deep integration of innovative ecosystems. As the expo unfolds, the “secrets of cooperation” hidden in labs, production lines, and policy papers will come to life through robot demonstrations, new agreements, and inspiring discussions. Together, they’re writing a unique story of “mutually beneficial innovation” that resonates far beyond their borders.
