Thank you to all our members and friends who joined us for this year’s Annual General Meeting. It was a pleasure to see so many familiar and new faces, and to close the year together in such a positive and constructive spirit.
We are happy to share that our new Chair is Mika Autio, and I am honoured to take on the role of Vice Chair for the coming term. We also welcome in our new Board members. We look forward to working closely with our Board, members, and partners to continue strengthening our Chamber and delivering meaningful value to our community.
As we look ahead, we are optimistic about the year to come and hopeful for interesting opportunities, stronger cooperation, and good business prospects for all our members.
Thank you for your trust, engagement, and continued support. Here’s to another active, insightful, and rewarding year together!
FinnCham South China participated in Hong Kong FinTech Week, where discussions centered on the rapid development of fintech, AI integration, and the evolution of cross-border payment systems.
We connected with representatives from several fintech companies and solutions providers. If members express interest, we would be glad to explore the possibility of co-organizing a focused fintech session or company visit later in the upcoming year.
Warm welcome to celebrate the Independence Day with FinnCham South China!
The annual FinnCham South China Independence Day event is upon us!
Join us celebrating the Finnish independence and the Finnish business community with us in the historic center district of Shenzhen!
Where and When?
Date and Time: December 5th, 17:00 (AGM), 18:15 Dinner
Location:
深圳市 罗湖区南湖路3018号 深圳富苑皇冠假日套房酒店3楼
Prego, Shenzhen Fuyuan Crowne Plaza Suite Hotel (Shenzhen Fuyuan Branch), No.3018 Nanhu Road, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001
How to get there?
Metro:
From 深圳站: take Line 1 (罗湖 Luohu）station to 国贸 Guomao. If you are coming from Hong Kong I recommend this option.
From 蛇口 Harbor: take Line 8 until 湖贝 Hubei. Alternative option: Line 12 from 太子湾 Taiziwan to 桃园 Taoyuan and switch to Line 1 until 国贸 Guomao. Note: long travel distance!
From 深圳北站：Take Line 4 until 会展中心 Convention&Exhibition Center and switch to Line 1 until 国贸 Guomao. Note: long travel distance!
Tickets
Members:
With 1 drink (wine/beer) 150 RMB /
With 3h free flow 250 RMB
Non-Members:
450 RMB (incl 1 glass of wine or beer) /
550 RMB (3h free flow)
2026 Membership Promotion
Individual: 250 RMB
Corporate Membership: 1000 RMB (no increase to last year)
For the sake of clarity, total price for individual Membership + Dinner ticket is total 400 RMB (1 drink) / 500 RMB (Free flow) if paid by December 5th. Payment on location.
Everyone who has paid the 2025 membership fee is entitled to the discounted member prices.
If you join as a member at the event, you get the same discount!
FinnCham South China Visit to SCUT (South China University of Technology)
Date & Time: October 18, 2025 | 14:30 – 17:30 (with optional dinner afterwards) Location: South China University of Technology (SCUT), Guangzhou How to get there: Wushan metro station (3号线) exit C
FinnCham South China is pleased to invite members and friends to a special visit to South China University of Technology (SCUT), one of China’s most prestigious national key universities under the Ministry of Education.
Tracing its roots back to 1918, SCUT has grown into a leading institution of engineering and interdisciplinary innovation, recognized globally for its excellence in materials science, chemistry, and computer science. Known as the “cradle of engineers and entrepreneurs”, SCUT combines cutting-edge research with strong industry partnerships and over 30 national research platforms, playing a vital role in China’s scientific and technological advancement.
15:30 – 17:30 | Casual meeting in Meeting Room 303, Building 30
SCUT team presentation
FinnCham presentation
Open sharing session (members are welcome to present)
Tea and light refreshments provided
17:30 onwards | Free activities & optional dinner with organizers
This visit is a great opportunity to learn about SCUT’s groundbreaking research, connect with leading academics, and exchange ideas with fellow members in a relaxed atmosphere.
A warm thank you to everyone who joined us in sunny Helsinki this summer! It was wonderful to reconnect with our members, exchange insights, and strengthen our Finland–South China ties during the holiday season.
Your engagement and support are what make the FinnCham South China community thrive — whether in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or all the way up north in Helsinki.
On Friday, April 12th, FinnCham South China had the pleasure of hosting a member-exclusive visit to ANDRITZ China’s service and supply center in Foshan. The event offered our members a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the operations of a leading global technology company, while also enjoying an evening of networking in a truly special setting.
Company Presentation & Discussion
The visit began with a warm welcome and an engaging company introduction, where ANDRITZ representatives shared the company’s history, core business areas, and its presence in China. The session was interactive, with insightful questions and comments from our members—ranging from sustainability and digitalization to the company’s long-term development outlook. ANDRITZ’s team provided thoughtful answers and field-specific expertise that sparked deeper conversations.
Guided Factory Tour
Equipped with safety gear, the group was then given a guided tour of the expansive manufacturing facility. Guests were impressed by the scale and efficiency of the site—and especially by the elegant, traditional Guangdong-style architecture. The design features beautifully curved rooftops, blending heritage aesthetics with industrial functionality, making the site itself a unique highlight of the visit.
Cultural and Historical Context
During the visit, guests were also introduced to the rich history of the local area, adding depth and cultural context to the day’s experience.
Rooftop BBQ & Networking
The visit concluded with a relaxed and delicious rooftop BBQ at the company premises. Surrounded by good food and a picturesque view, guests—many of whom had never met before—connected over shared interests and new ideas. It was an ideal setting for building relationships across industries and backgrounds.
Thank You
FinnCham South China extends our warmest thanks to ANDRITZ China and especially Mr. Markku Lehtinen for hosting us so graciously and making the evening both meaningful and memorable.
We look forward to many more opportunities to bring our members together in unique settings like this—where business, culture, and conversation naturally intersect.
FinnCham South China had the pleasure of attending the Shenzhen International Underwear Fair (SIUF), one of the most important fashion and textile industry events in China. The Chamber was represented by Chairwoman Ms. Saara Fu, who took part in a range of official activities during the multi-day event.
Key Highlights
Opening Ceremony: FinnCham participated in the grand opening, witnessing a strong presence of both domestic and international brands.
Roundtable Discussion: Chairwoman Saara Fu joined other speakers in a panel on innovation and sustainability in the global fashion industry.
Television Interview: Ms. Fu gave an interview on-site, highlighting Finland’s approach to sustainability in fashion, where eco-consciousness is not just a trend but a long-standing, embedded practice. She also discussed consumer expectations, the second-hand market, and circular economy models in Finnish fashion.
Fashion Shows & Exhibitions: The delegation explored new collections and technological displays, observing growing demand for sustainable practices across the Chinese fashion sector.
Fair Showroom Visit: Ms. Fu visited to fair showrooms and networked with textile and clothing manufacturers.
Photo Credit: SIUF2025
Key Observations
There is momentum in China toward sustainability and innovation, driven largely by consumer demand—particularly among younger buyers.
Companies are actively investing in new textile processing technologies, and AI integration is becoming more visible throughout the design-to-logistics chain.
Despite this progress, internal market competition remains intense, making innovation and brand differentiation critical.
In terms of design, the exhibition featured a creative mix of futuristic and utilitarian aesthetics, classic Western influences, and inspirations from traditional Chinese fashion, highlighting the global fusion shaping the industry today.
Event Snapshots
Casual and futuristic looksA snapshot of the styles shown at SIUF2025MiiOW brand show with some casual looksPhotographers were especially interested in certain types of looksMs. Fu had a long chat with the people from this textile supplierNew materials and solutions were also shown at the fairBesides Ms. Fu, there was some Finnish representation at the eventNot just clothes – all sorts of really cool machinery were shown in the exhibition pavilionSANDYASI’s stall was very livelyMs. Fu at SIUF
Looking Ahead
FinnCham South China looks forward to continued dialogue with industry stakeholders and welcomes collaboration with Chinese and Finnish companies driving responsible, forward-thinking innovation in fashion and textiles.
On January 9th, FinnCham South China had the honor of representing the Finnish business community at the grand opening of a new Metso Greater Bay Area Service and Supply Center in Plainvim Intelligent Industrial Park Foshan, hosted by Metso.
The event was a wonderful celebration of progress, collaboration, and tradition. Attendees were treated to a beautiful opening ceremony, featuring a vibrant and symbolic lion dance. This traditional performance not only brought energy and excitement to the occasion but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The traditional lion dance
It was delightful to connect with the talented and inspiring people behind this exciting new venture. Events like these underscore the importance of fostering strong relationships within our network and celebrating the achievements of our members.
FinnCham South China is committed to supporting and showcasing the incredible work of our member companies. This special day in Foshan was a testament to the value of collaboration and community in driving success.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Metso for inviting us to join this milestone event. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of their new service and supply center, and exploring further opportunities for collaboration.
Together, let’s continue building bridges, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities for a brighter future.
Chairwoman’s USK – New Metso Service and Supply Center, Foshan
Warm regards, Saara Fu Chairwoman, FinnCham South China
FinnCham South China at the 2nd Greater Bay Area State-Owned Enterprises Supply Chain Collaboration Conference & Supply Chain Collaboration Exhibition
In December, FinnCham South China had the honor of representing Finland at the 2nd Greater Bay Area State-Owned Enterprises Supply Chain Collaboration Conference & Supply Chain Collaboration Exhibition, at the invitation of the Finnish Water Forum and the International Scientific Exchange Foundation of China.
FinnCham South China and Finnish Water Forum represent
Finnish Water Forum and FinnCham South China joined a round table discussion on issues related to water sustainability, technology, and cooperation between Finland and China, which was organized as a part of the SOE Supply Chain Collaboration Conference. The event brought together experts, policymakers, and business leaders, such as UPM, from Finland and China to discuss solutions for one of the world’s most pressing challenges: sustainable water management.
The Chamber’s representative engaged with key stakeholders and gained valuable insights into global water technology advancements. Finland’s reputation as a leader in water science and innovation was highlighted throughout the discussions, and there was a shared enthusiasm for collaboration between the two countries.
Key Highlights from the Event:
Networking Opportunities: Several high-ranking professionals and organizations across multiple industries were engaged, creating a network for potential future partnerships.
Strategic Insights: Panel discussions emphasized the importance of integrating science and technology into water management. Finland’s best practices in water technology were warmly received and seen as a model for sustainable development.
Collaboration Opportunities: The event showcased an eagerness from all sides to share expertise, jointly develop innovative solutions, and craft impactful projects together.
Finnish media representation: The Chairwoman was one of the few foreign representatives at the event, and was given an opportunity to say a few words to the media about Finland’s eagerness to cooperate and share best practices related to water sustainability: 媒体专访：芬兰水务协会驻华首席代表臧松涛；芬兰中国商会华南区主席Ms. Saara Fu – 第二届粤港澳大湾区国有企业供应链协同交流会_智慧中国
Opening ceremonyThe UPM stand at the exhibition
The Chamber was happy to see UPM from Finland represented at the exhibition, and the Chairwoman thanks for the excellent paper sample.
Looking Ahead:
The Chamber aims to facilitate connections between Finnish businesses and international partners to further these initiatives. Members interested in pursuing collaborative opportunities in water technology or related fields are encouraged to reach out to discuss potential next steps.
Join the Next Step:
A high-level event about water sustainability is in the plans for May 2025 in Chengdu. Members interested in participating or supporting this initiative are invited to contact the Chamber for more details. Stay tuned for more!
Together, these connections can be turned into impactful outcomes. Let’s continue building bridges, finding solutions, and working toward a sustainable future.
Chairwoman’s USK – Canton Fair Complex area, Guangzhou
Warm regards, Ms. Saara Fu Chairwoman, FinnCham South China
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM), held last Saturday at The Flames restaurant in Shekou, Shenzhen, marked an important milestone for our Chamber. With a strong turnout of voting Corporate Members and active Individual Members, the two-hour session was filled with lively discussions and fresh ideas, underscoring the vibrant spirit of our community.
We were honored to have Honorary Chairman Mika Tawast also in attendance, adding depth and perspective to the conversations.
A heartfelt thank you to all who joined and contributed!
Welcoming New Leadership
The AGM brought exciting news for our Chamber’s future. We are delighted to announce that Mrs. Saara Fu is our new Chairwoman. Saara brings exceptional energy, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for serving our members and partners. We are confident that her leadership will propel us toward greater success in 2025 and beyond.
Supporting her in this journey, the new Vice Chair is Jyri Lintunen. The board is rounded out by Sophie Zhang, Tuukka Tolonen, Pekka Korva and Lasse Liukkonen. Congratulations to all on their nominations!
A Warm Welcome to New Members
We are thrilled to welcome Metso, Roberts Oy, Guangzhou Areum Management Ltd and The Flames to our Chamber. Their addition enriches our growing network and strengthens the ties between Finnish businesses in South China.
Key Decisions and Updates
The AGM also featured significant updates:
Name Change to FinnCham South China To better represent our growing membership base across South China and simplify coordination with our Hong Kong members, we have officially adopted the name FinnCham South China. This change reflects our broader regional focus and commitment to supporting Finnish businesses beyond Guangdong Province.
Future of FinnCham China Membership While the idea of joining the FinnCham China alliance was well-received, concerns about the proposed membership fees relative to value delayed a final decision. Members expressed strong support for the concept and agreed to revisit the matter at a future AGM, possibly already in March 2025.
Looking Ahead
The AGM set the tone for an ambitious and collaborative year ahead. We look forward to building on the ideas shared, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to grow our presence in South China.
Once again, congratulations to our new Chairwoman Saara Fu, Vice Chair Jyri Lintunen, and all board members. Thank you everyone who participated, especially those who brought their voices and insights to the table.
After the AGM there was a festive celebration of the Finnish 107th Independence Day in the presence of Consul General of Finland in Hong Kong, Mr. Timo Kantola and Lady Irma Kantola! Have a look at the photo collections of the event here.
Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to engage with our vibrant FinnCham community.
Warm regards,
Ville Majanen Outgoing Chairperson, FinnCham South China
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from Finncham South China as we continue to work towards fostering a thriving Finnish business community in China by becoming our member and/or by subscribing to our newsletter!
