An agreement inked in China and a subsequent high-level summit in Edinburgh have accelerated collaborative opportunities between Glasgow businesses and Chinese institutions.

The agreement was signed during a trade mission to China this June between the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and the Xi’an Foreign Affairs Office. The visit coincided with the 12th China (Shanghai) International Technology Fair (CSITF).

The partnership set out a framework for continued collaboration, which has already progressed through further engagement between the two organisations. Most recently, the chamber and several of the businesses involved in the mission were invited to Edinburgh to meet the chairman of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and an accompanying delegation.

The meeting, which took place this month, brought together partners from across Scotland’s business, academic and public sectors, including the University of Edinburgh, the UK National Committee on China (UKNCC), the Scotland Office, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, and a number of other Scottish companies.

Richard Muir, deputy chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, highlighted examples of successful Sino-Scottish collaboration, including the work Chamber members are already undertaking with Chinese partners in technology, education and professional services. The discussion focused on future opportunities for collaboration, including sector partnerships, knowledge exchange and the practical support businesses need to develop lasting international relationships.

For the companies involved, this was an opportunity to build on the relationships and insights gained during the trade mission. Introductions made overseas gain real value when they lead to sustained dialogue, and the Edinburgh meeting provided delegates with direct access to decision-makers and institutional partners who can help transform initial conversations into commercial opportunities.

Businesses joining the meeting with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce included StrydAR, Prioto, Klik2learn, Glasgow Kelvin College, G2 Sports Tours and Bank of China. These organisations span immersive technology, digital learning, further education, sports tourism and international banking, reflecting both the breadth of expertise within Glasgow’s business community and the range of sectors in which Scottish and Chinese partners can work together.

Glasgow Chamber of Commerce has plans to continue to strengthen its relationships in China, helping members identify export opportunities, build international partnerships and access one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets.

The chamber has an upcoming trade mission to Shanghai for the International Import Expo 2026, from 4-9 November. Before that, an October trade mission to Singapore is also planned.