Spring offered the perfect backdrop for the Chamber's seven-day study mission to Europe's technology leaders – Germany and France. This collaboration with the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) explored innovation ecosystems across four key cities: Hannover, Wolfsburg, Cologne and Lille, from 30 March to 5 April.
It also supported Hong Kong's ongoing efforts to foster international business and trade ties, explore investment opportunities and facilitate knowledge exchange with European partners in strategic sectors amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
“The study mission offered excellent opportunities for the 20-member delegation,” said Elsa Wong, Co-Mission Leader and Chairman of the Chamber’s Innovation, Data and Communication Committee. “We gained exposure to pioneering technological and industrial advancements in Germany, as well as technology ecosystems, local chambers and leading industrial organizations in France. The trip reinforced a future driven by global collaborations, knowledge exchange and strategic innovation.”
Hannover: Industry 4.0 Takes Centre Stage
At Hannover Messe, the world’s leading industrial trade fair, innovative solutions in Industry 4.0, energy efficiency, robotics, automation, quantum computing and digital ecosystems were showcased across 26 mega halls and pavilions.
Among the most exciting showcases were the booths of industry leaders Hexagon and Siemens. Hexagon introduced its groundbreaking technology in digital reality solutions, enabling data-driven transformations and optimal performance across various industries, including manufacturing and construction. For instance, its technology is a staple in Formula One racing.
A global leader in industrial automation, Siemens provided hands-on insights into the next phase of smart and sustainable manufacturing – where AI, robotics and smart systems converge to redefine operational efficiencies. We witnessed various examples of such sustainable solutions in the pharmaceutical and life sciences.
Another highlight was the pavilion showcasing HKPC’s latest AI-driven robotics and next-generation manufacturing technologies.
Samson Suen, Co-Mission Leader and General Manager of the Smart Manufacturing Division at HKPC, stated that the delegation gained significant insights from exploring Europe’s advanced manufacturing innovations and business integration. “HKPC remains committed to driving Hong Kong’s innovation leadership and industry advancement by supporting local companies in adopting state-of-the-art technologies and fostering cross-border collaborations in the digital economy through its diverse services,” he said.
One of the standout experiences at Hannover Messe was the opportunity to meet Goalia, an AI-powered goalie robot developed by high-school students in Canada. Designed for ice hockey, the robot provided an inspiring glimpse into the next generation of tech pioneers. We were also impressed by a synchronized laser lightsabre performance orchestrated by robotic arms – a dazzling demonstration of synchronized mechanics and robotic motion control.
Wolfsburg: Exploring Advanced Manufacturing
The next stop in our itinerary was Wolfsburg, Germany’s beating heart of automotive excellence and industrial automation. Our itinerary featured exclusive visits to Volkswagen AG and ZEISS GOM Metrology GmbH for an in-depth look at smart manufacturing and precision metrology solutions.
During our guided factory tour at Volkswagen AG, we saw the highly automated automobile production lines in action.
The streamlined processes – stamping, welding, assembly and final inspection – were primarily executed by precision-driven robotic arms. Approximately 4,000 cars are assembled daily, with each vehicle taking about 18 to 20 hours from start to finish – a testament to the efficiency of advanced manufacturing automation.
Dr. Jan Thesing, Head of BU Optical Systems at ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions, explained that the company focuses on multidimensional metrology solutions, covering semiconductor manufacturing, industrial quality control, medical technology, and consumer markets.
Here, we had the opportunity to witness live demonstrations of CT scanning and optical metrology imaging machines – an inspiring first-hand experience of the company’s approach to high-precision measurement through AI-driven imaging and metrology tools.
At RWTH Aachen University, a prestigious institution in Germany committed to scientific research and technological development, we learned it has 800,000 square metres dedicated to research and innovation.
“The university has formed various partnerships with top institutes and collaborators to foster world-class innovations in digital transformation, future market technologies, sustainability transparency, the circular economy, new energy solutions and AI,” said Patrick Kabasci, Executive Director at INC Invention Center. Kabasci also guided our learning experience at the university – the Fraunhofer IPT Design Thinking Workshop – Corporate Innovation.
Outlining the future trends of Industry 4.0, Kabasci pointed out that businesses could harness AI, smart manufacturing, climate technologies, smart health and nutrition technologies, and extended reality solutions to develop disruptive strategies and market innovations. However, he noted that this should be paired with potential considerations in applying such technologies, such as developing customer trust and intellectual property.
Later, the delegates paired up to develop business value propositions. The resulting concepts were truly creative: humanoid work robots designed to meet future workforce needs; tangerine peel authentication systems and reimagined construction solutions.
The session also featured pitches from start-ups supported by the university, such as Maestro Hub and Reqaire, whose representatives shared their entrepreneurial journeys and tech-driven approaches to industry transformation. The tour ended with a visit to the university’s start-up centre for a lively discussion on new business innovation trends.
Lille: Innovation & Heritage
Our final leg of the mission took us to the picturesque city of Lille, the historic capital of the Hauts-de-France region, where Flemish architecture sits side by side with modern tech parks.
It was a pleasure to embark on the special programme curated by our hosts, Hello Lille's Project Manager Sophie Dupont and World Trade Center Lille Hauts-de-France Director Laurie Grzechnik, with invaluable contributions from former HKGCC General Committee member Jennifer Chan.
“Hello Lille“ is the Attractiveness Agency of Lille Metropolis, working in partnership with organizations such as WTC Lille Hauts-de-France – a key business portal and point of entry for international companies – to bring in international investment.
“Lille ranks among Europe’s top 10 most attractive economic areas,” Dupont explained. "The city has undergone significant transformations in key sectors including health, food, digital industries, cultural and creative sectors, new materials, cybersecurity, and e-commerce.” Her remarks set the tone for our two-day visit to this beautiful city, igniting the development of ongoing ties with Hong Kong.
Our visits to Lille’s most influential tech parks and innovation clusters included Euralimentaire, a food tech incubator and accelerator, where delegates toured active start-up labs and Lille’s wholesale market, led by General Director Thomas Vincent and his colleagues. We were particularly impressed by the innovation in fresh and local products. According to Vincent, the park has 1,000 square metres of land dedicated to its 40 start-ups.
We also visited Eurasanté, known for its health and biopharma innovations. Dupont highlighted that the bio business park exemplifies the successful alliance between education, medical research and companies specializing in health.
At EuraCreative by Plaine Images, a vibrant centre for creative industries, we connected with experts and entrepreneurs exploring cutting-edge developments in music technology, film production and gaming. The day wrapped up with a networking party organized by Director Emmanuel Delamarre.
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Lille Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This stunning historic architectural landmark has been central to the region’s economic development for more than a century. Originally completed in the 1920s, the building was once the site of local stock market transactions and port trade operations, which were essential for economic growth in northern France.
Executive Director Grégory Marcaille explained that the Chamber has transformed into a modern business hub that blends its rich heritage with innovation. It provides a range of services for corporate enterprises, entrepreneurs and international businesses, including coworking spaces, strategic advisory services and networking facilities.
Our final stop was Restaurant Meert – an iconic eatery dating back to the 1600s – renowned for its exquisite waffles, artisanal sweets and signature cuisine. It was the perfect setting for an afternoon of presentations, networking and exchanges with key business organizations and companies.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry International representative Xiao Zhang kicked off the session by introducing the organization’s focus areas. “Companies from the region are eager to expand into Mainland China and the Greater Bay Area,” explained Zhang. “We are looking forward to partnerships between Hong Kong and Lille, given each city’s unique strengths.”
In a thought-provoking exchange, Stephan Verin, Director of EuraMaterials and Rev3 Partnership Manager Florence Chuop pointed out that sustainability, decarbonization, water sobriety and material innovation are critical concepts of the circular economy.
“Businesses can integrate sustainable practices and next-generation materials to drive long-term value creation, which is encouraged by the European Union’s robust governance and regulatory regime,” explained Verin.
We also connected with members of the World Trade Centre Lille Hauts-de-France and the 100 Year Old Companies Club. The club comprises legacy enterprises founded over a century ago, and functions to influence local policy and promote industry development by identifying high-value-added services.
We also enjoyed engaging in conversation with various companies offering diverse takes on pool tables to vitamins and wines.
Summing up the mission, Wong said: "We have not only met but also exceeded our key objectives for this mission: broadening business innovation horizons; promoting Hong Kong’s unique strengths as a leading I&T hub for foreign talent and enterprises; and forging precise and promising new ties between Hong Kong and EU trade chambers, industry associations and enterprises, which are invaluable to both economies. The Chamber will continue to play a key role in deepening these international connections.”
The Chamber wishes to thank all our hosts in Germany and France for making this study mission such a success, as well as the delegation leaders and advisors.
What Delegates Say:
This mission unveiled Europe’s start-up scene through a rare lens, enriched by a diverse delegation – from academics to seasoned business leaders. Our inspiring exchanges included unique experiences from different experts. It’s what modern business demands and the Chamber’s innovative co-organization proves its trendsetting edge.
Kelven Lit, Director, Sapiens Intelligence Corporation Ltd
Through this mission, businesses gained insights into potential areas for innovation and adaptation in technology and digital management, while discovering numerous opportunities along the way.
Lo Cham Sum, Testing Engineer, Kum Shing Engineering Co., Ltd
This trip provided businesses with exclusive insights and firsthand exposure to AI-powered cities, shaping their understanding of present and future innovations.
Roy Lee, CEO, Scrapsupermart Investment Limited
An impressive and eye-opening journey for businesses, through visiting Hannover Messe, cutting-edge European technology and manufacturing companies and academic institutions, which offered hands-on involvement and networking opportunities.
Sam Fok, CEO, Homba Innovations Pty Ltd