IoD China Group

UK-China Intellectual Property Ecosystem Roundtable Yesterday the Institute of Directors (IoD) had an insightful and engaging discussion on UK-China relations and understanding the Intellectual Property (IP) Ecosystem. Samuel S. (UK IP Attaché to China) underscored the importance of proactive engagement, legal clarity, and government-business collaboration to ensure that UK firms can innovate with confidence in the Chinese market. We hope this is the start of continued engagement with the IPO team so we can address the challenges, strategies, and best practices for IP protection and commercialisation in China. Key Takeaways: ✅ The current state of UK-China IP collaboration presents both opportunities and risks, particularly around enforcement gaps, regulatory inconsistencies, and technology transfer pressures. ✅ Legal and policy barriers remain a significant challenge for UK businesses operating in China, requiring expert navigation and stronger government advocacy. ✅ SMEs and research institutions often face the biggest hurdles, underscoring the need for greater support and guidance in IP protection. ✅ Strategic solutions include clearer legal agreements, stronger UK-China collaboration on fair IP practices, and improved education for UK firms on navigating China’s IP landscape. A huge thank you to Erin Young (Head of Innovation and Technology Policy, IoD) and Steven Lynch MBE (Chair, IoD China) for leading the conversation and providing valuable insights. If you were part of the roundtable or have thoughts on this topic, we’d love to hear from you! #IntellectualProperty #UKChina #IPProtection #Innovation #BusinessStrategy #Collaboration

CCPIT 3rd China International Supply Chain Expo Roadshow (UK) This year, the vice chair of CCPIT is coming to London to provide authoritative answers to the audience. Representatives from the Chinese Embassy in the UK, DBT, CBBC, the City of London, CUKBDC, IoD , CCCUK and over 150 representatives from the British and Chinese business communities will also attend. Date:   Wednesday 12th March 2025 Time:   9:30 - 12:00 GMT Venue:  UN Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square https://lnkd.in/ewyXdy2Q

Spring + London + China + Nerds + Drinks Wednesday, March 19 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM https://lu.ma/k5jf0ypa

Global Britain Trade Expo 2025 X Institute of Directors (IoD) - Cracking the China Code: UK - China Business in 2025 In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK’s trade relationship with China has become increasingly complex, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The UK government’s ‘Invest 2035’ industrial strategy aims to provide stability and encourage investment in high-growth sectors such as green technology, artificial intelligence, and healthcare. However, SMEs face significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles and fragmented support systems, which complicate market access and trade operations. This panel will delve into the evolving trade landscape with China, focusing on how UK SMEs can navigate these challenges and capitalize on opportunities presented by ‘Invest 2035’. Discussions will address the specific obstacles SMEs encounter, such as complex regulatory environments and limited access to comprehensive support and information. The goal is to provide actionable insights and recommendations to help SMEs thrive in this dynamic context. By fostering a collaborative dialogue among industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders, this session aims to shed light on practical strategies for the UK to successfully engage with the Chinese market amidst post-pandemic uncertainties and policy shifts.

新春快乐！ Happy Chinese New Year!

Celebrate Chinese New Year at Mansion House on 10 February with an exclusive evening of world-class music and culture with the young musicians from China and the UK. Enjoy a spectacular concert featuring exceptional young musicians from the prestigious Yehudi Menuhin Schools in the UK and China, founded by Yehudi Menuhin, one of the world’s most celebrated violinists. Introduced by renowned violinists Tasmin Little CBE and Lu Siqing, the evening will dazzle with captivating performances, from Brahms’ energetic Hungarian Dances to Mendelssohn’s breathtaking Octet. Guests will enjoy drinks, canapés, and the chance to win exclusive prizes in our raffle. Doors open 6pm Concert and drinks 6.30pm – 9pm. Looking for something extra special? Elevate your experience with our VIP packages, offering premium tickets, marketing opportunities, and a private dinner hosted by the Lord Mayor and the Chinese Ambassador.

IoD China Group Chair Steven Lynch MBE spoke at The Cambridge Union President debate - ‘This House Believes the West is Hypocritical Towards China’. This debate may not necessarily reflect the official stance of the IoD; however, we firmly believe that open debate and constructive dialogue are crucial to shaping and strengthening the UK’s relationship with China. https://lnkd.in/eA9Vd94E

Christmas + Nerdfest + UK & China drinks = NERDFESTMAS or Christ-Nerd-Chai-mas … Anyway, we had 100+ China watchers join for end of year drinks. No agenda, no speeches, no VIPs.

IoD China Group & IoD Africa Group & Development Reimagined Fascinating multilateral roundtable discussion at the Institute of Directors (IoD) at 116 Pall Mall on the role of Chinese private investment into Africa. Thanks to the China-Africa Business Council (CABC) delegation for sharing your insights. The CABC operates in Africa with three guiding principles: cultural respect, fair trade, and win-win cooperation. Their efforts span eight critical sectors: oil and gas, infrastructure, industrial cooperation, energy and electricity, agriculture, business services, the digital economy, people-to-people cooperation, and financial services. The roundtable was co-hosted by the dynamic IoD Africa Group, a leading platform for fostering cultural and business ties with Africa and amplifying Africa's voice in global relations. Thank you to Joel P., Chair of IoD Africa Group, for expertly leading the session, Leah Lynch, COO at Development Reimagined, Her Excellency Ambassador Linda Scott, Cllr. Biyi Oloko, Vice-Chair of IoD Africa Group, Agnes Gitau, President of the East Africa Association, Tina Andima from the Namibia High Commission, for their invaluable contributions to this dialogue. This event reaffirmed the importance of cross-continental collaboration and the potential of partnerships built on mutual respect and shared prosperity.

Join the UK-Tianjin Promotion and Exchange Conference 🗓 Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 🕒 Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM 📍 Venue: Chartered Accountants Hall, 1 Moorgate Pl, London EC2R 6EA This event is a unique platform for entrepreneurs, government officials, and representatives from chambers of commerce in Tianjin and the UK to share insights, network, and explore opportunities for cooperation across various sectors. Please RSVP https://lnkd.in/exwbNpPN