The May 2026 Team Finland China Biannual meeting at the newly renovated Finland Consulate General in Shanghai brought together a powerful network of Finnish stakeholders, government representatives, and business leaders.
Hosted by Consul General Anu Vuori, the gathering was led by Ambassador Mikko Kinnunen (Team Finland Director in China), alongside Deputy Head of Mission Terhi Bunders, along with the trade team from the Embassy and Consulate General. Consul General Timo Kantola joined us from Hong Kong, as well as future Hong Kong CG Juha Niemi from the MFA.
As Deputy Minister Jarno Syrjälä emphasized during the sessions, the global economy and Finland are facing significant challenges. In this climate, ambition is not just a buzzword, it is a necessity.
With Business Finland trade promotion operations now merged under the Foreign Ministry, support for Finnish companies in target industries remains strong.
The reality on the ground is stark: China has evolved into an active global economic subject, investing and trading worldwide. Success here now demands deep integration, local presence, and the agility to adapt.
As the discussions highlighted, the best way to operate is by forging genuine partnerships and bringing value through our unique know-how.
As one insightful speaker noted, the path forward lies not in competition among Nordic nations, but in embracing a “wolf pack mentality.” By pooling our resources, sharing market intelligence, and supporting one another, we all can create a stronger, more resilient presence across the Greater Bay Area and the Mainland.
Whether it’s leveraging or building direct bridges with local Chinese partners, the message is clear: Be a local player and partner.
By combining our ambition with a collaborative spirit, Finnish and Nordic businesses can turn the challenges of today into the growth opportunities of tomorrow.