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China decoded: disruption, dominance, or downfall?
From TikTok algorithms to supply chains, from climate solutions to surveillance tech, from ancient philosophy to futuristic cities—China is everywhere, yet remains a mystery. China's innovation machine operates unlike anything in the West—massive scale, lightning speed, state backing, and a willingness to "copy-improve-dominate." But is this sustainable?
In an era where China's technological prowess shapes global markets while geopolitical tensions rise, how should European entrepreneurs and innovators position themselves? This thought-provoking evening brings together unique perspectives on China's evolution, offering Wintercircus Collective members actionable insights for navigating the complexities of engagement with the world's second-largest economy.
What can European innovators learn, what should they fear, and where are the unexpected opportunities? Four distinctive voices cut through the noise with sharp insights, surprising stories, and uncomfortable truths about the Middle Kingdom's past, present, and future.
Short description
China isn't coming—it's already here. In your phone, your job, your future. Four speakers, four perspectives, countless surprises. From ancient wisdom to AI dominance, from dumplings to surveillance, from opportunity to threat. An evening that will change how you see the world's most important relationship.
Featured Speakers
- Tom Van de Weghe – Curator 'Politics & Society' for Wintercircus Collective, VRT NWS China-expert and author of the brand new book "Terug naar China," offering on-the-ground insights into China's transformation under Xi Jinping and what it means for European businesses
- Prof. Dorien Emmers - KU Leuven Professor of Economics and Sinology, bridging academic rigor with practical economic analysis of China-Europe relations
- Jun Jiang- Cross-cultural business catalyst specializing in East-West cooperation, providing insider perspectives on building successful partnerships despite cultural barriers
- Pascal Coppens - Sinologist & China innovation keynote speaker; author of the book "China's next miracle", partner at nexxworks
AGENDA
19:00 Doors Open
19:30 Intro by Tom Van de Weghe
19:35 Lightning Talks Round
20:35 Panel Discussion
21:10 Audience Q&A
21:30 Closing Remarks
21:35 Book Signing & Networking
TOM VAN DE WEGHE
Tom Van de Weghe is a seasoned Belgian journalist, documentary maker and foreign affairs analyst, China expert for VRT NWS and our curator for Wintercircus Collective (Politics & Society). He was the first Belgian TV correspondent stationed in China (2007–2012) and later headed the Washington bureau, combining deep field experience with geopolitical insight. With his forthcoming book Terug naar China, Tom returns to the field, offering vivid, on-the-ground narratives about China’s transformation under Xi Jinping and what these shifts mean for European companies navigating the new balance of power.
DORIEN EMMERS
Prof Dorien Emmers is Professor in both Sinology and Economics at KU Leuven, and affiliated research scholar at Stanford’s Center on China’s Economy & Institutions. She holds a PhD in Economics from KU Leuven (LICOS) and earlier degrees in Sinology and economic research, combining language–area expertise with rigorous economic methods. Her research focuses on human capital formation, social mobility and early childhood interventions in rural China, bridging micro-level experiments to broader China–Europe implications.
JUN JIANG
Jun Jiang is a cross-cultural business catalyst focused on East–West cooperation, helping European and Chinese firms bridge cultural, institutional and communication divides. She provides insider perspectives on how to translate cultural differences into strategic advantage, facilitating sustainable partnerships and mutual understanding in complex bilateral business settings.
PASCAL COPPENS
Pascal Coppens is a sinologist, innovation strategist, keynote speaker and partner at nexxworks, with a deep interest in how China’s innovation ecosystem is reshaping global competition. As author of China’s Next Miracle, he explores how China moves from imitation to frontier innovation and what the West must learn to stay relevant. With his blend of cultural fluency, strategic foresight and storytelling, Pascal helps audiences and businesses reimagine how Europe can engage and adapt in the Chinese future.