The fourth edition of the China-CEEC Expo, which takes place from 22-25 May in Ningbo, is more than just a technology showcase - it is a testament to 13 years of deepening cooperation between China and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). But beneath the surface of the exhibition lies a whole story of economic connectivity and a shared innovative future.
Ningbo's vision: from research to industrial hub
In 2018, the city started Ningbo's "Science and Technology Innovation 2025" programmewhich has encouraged the creation of specialised industrial zones and Opening of the China-CEE Innovation Research Centre in 2022. By August 2024, the nearly 200 investment projects between Ningbo and CEE countries.
The automotive superpower of the future
Geely, Zeekr, Joyson Electronics - three names that define the future of the Chinese automotive industry. From Ningbo, electric cars and battery components are heading to Europe. For example, Zhenyu Technology is planning a new factory in Hungary, while Joyson already has 10 plants in countries such as Romania, Poland and Northern Macedonia, employing over 10,000 people.
The cooperation has the opposite direction - Slovakia, a guest of the fair, with a high production of cars per capita, becomes an ideal partner for companies like Zeekr. Hungary, in turn, is bringing CEE markets within reach of Chinese suppliers thanks to investments from CATL and BYD.
Innovation from Europe to China: biodegradation and virtual reality
But the relationship does not stop at exports. Bulgarian company Ningbo Bulgarhua Biomaterialsspecialising in biodegradable materials, has opened an office in Ningbo. It was brought to Yuyao by considerable know-how in plastics and favourable conditions for innovation.
And the world of virtual reality? CEE VR Park joins forces with Ningbo Science Exploration Center and opened a branch here, which welcomed over 1,500 visitors in three days during the opening on a public holiday.
From exhibition to deep synergy
China-CEEC Expo is now more than a trade fair. On production lines, in laboratories and in political strategies, the a silent but important rapprochement. Innovation is not just an export commodity, but a common language between the East and Europe.
As the fair kicks off on 22 May, the world can look forward to a story of connected technologies, robotic demonstrations, investment deals and real human dialogue - a story of Eastern version of cooperation, which is not unilateral but "mutually beneficial".
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