On 11 April 2025, BritCham Shanghai’s SME Committee successfully launched the first session of the SME Circle series in 2025, which designed to provide practical knowledge-sharing and peer exchange opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
This invitation-only session brought together SME leaders across sectors for a focused discussion on Finance, International Trade Relations, and Regulatory Updates for SMEs in China. Attendees explored the evolving landscape of business operations in China, with particular emphasis on cross-border transactions, tax compliance, and capital requirements.
The session featured a keynote by Seven Shen, Partner at Forvis Mazars, who shared expert insights into effective operational practices that SMEs can adopt to stay resilient and competitive. Seven’s presentation provided a deep dive into current regulatory frameworks and incentive schemes that impact SMEs operating in or with China.
The roundtable format allowed participants to engage in an open exchange of experiences, challenges, and practical strategies. Topics included navigating cross-border complexities, understanding tax implications, and leveraging financial tools to support sustainable growth. The conversation also highlighted the importance of staying adaptive in a market shaped by both regulatory change and global economic pressures.
The Chamber was also pleased to receive generous support from the First sub-center, Investment Promotion Office of Xuhui District, which provided the venue for this session. A special thank-you goes to their continued collaboration and partnership.
This inaugural SME Circle session marked the beginning of what promises to be a highly valuable series for the SME community of BritCham SH. Participants walked away with new ideas, practical tips, and a broader understanding of how to navigate the challenges—and seize the opportunities—of doing business in today’s China.