Taicang recently hosted a symposium targeted at foreign-invested enterprises, underscoring the importance of openness and fostering a development consensus.

The city has attracted 1,600 foreign-invested enterprises to date, which account for 50 percent of its industrial output and 60 percent of its foreign trade.

Vessels berth at Taicang Port at dusk. [Photo/WeChat account: tcfbgw]

To welcome more "city partners", Taicang will ramp up efforts to create a world-class business environment. The city is committed to enhancing its openness, strengthening support for enterprises, and optimizing services for expats.

Skyscrapers tower over Taicang. [Photo/WeChat account: tcfbgw]

According to an annual survey conducted by AHK Greater China, German investment in China reached a record high in 2024. Many enterprises anticipate steady growth over the next five years, with more than half planning to increase their investment within the coming two years.

Jonathan Schoo, vice president of AHK Greater China, said that Taicang has emerged as an important hub for German research, development and manufacturing operations, with German businesses in the city maintaining an optimistic outlook on the Chinese market's long-term prospects.

An aerial view of Taicang's cityscape. [Photo/WeChat account: tcfbgw]