Language and culture barriers are impeding the expansion of EU businesses in China

European firms are having problems expanding into the Chinese market due to their lack of knowledge of the local culture and language – as well as the complexity of Chinese laws.

Between 2006 and 2011, The EU-China Management Exchange Training Programme (METP) has trained 170 European managers in the Chinese language, culture and business practices. In return, 250 Chinese managers have received business training and experience in EU member states. However, the programme has been critisised for being cumbersome, expensive and for its limited impact.

Meanwhile, the EU has opened a centre to help SMEs in Beijing on 5 November 2010. The centre aims to help SMEs establish themselves in China by providing information and assistance with company registration forms, employment contracts and certificates for technical standards.

EU-China Management Exchange Training Programme (METP)