A series of key initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between Shanghai and the Middle East were recently unveiled at the Middle East-Shanghai Investment Services Promotion Conference, held at the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone. Covering investment promotion, industrial collaboration, technological innovation, and business services, the event brought together government agencies, corporate representatives, and professional service providers from both China and the Middle East, further underscoring the growing momentum of economic and trade cooperation between the two regions.
As an important gateway connecting China with global markets, the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone is rapidly attracting international resources and facilitating two-way engagement between Middle Eastern capital entering China and Chinese enterprises expanding overseas. Supported by innovative policies, efficient customs clearance mechanisms, and a business-friendly international environment, an increasing number of Middle Eastern investors, industries, and innovation-driven enterprises are establishing a presence in China, while creating new opportunities for Chinese companies seeking to enter Middle Eastern markets.
Against the backdrop of expanding China–Middle East economic ties and rising demand for cross-border investment and industrial cooperation, ENCOR Group, headquartered in Hong Kong, continues to support Chinese enterprises through its integrated service network spanning Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. The Group provides end-to-end corporate services covering global structuring, cross-border investment, company formation, compliance management, and market entry strategies.
In recent years, the Gulf region has emerged as a key destination for Chinese enterprises pursuing international growth, driven by ongoing economic diversification initiatives and increasing investments in technology, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and the digital economy across markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Leveraging its deep-rooted presence in the Middle East, local expertise, and extensive project experience, ENCOR supports clients throughout the entire expansion lifecycle—from market entry planning, ODI filing and regulatory compliance to tax advisory, HR management, and operational support—helping businesses establish and scale their operations in the region efficiently and securely.
During the Middle East-Shanghai Investment Services Promotion Conference, Shelin Hakki, Head of Partnerships at ENCOR Group Middle East, participated in a media interview, sharing her perspectives on the evolving landscape of China–Middle East investment cooperation and the future development potential of the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone.
“The International Business Cooperation Zone is being developed into a key platform connecting China with global markets,” said Shelin. “From its strategic location and policy innovation to its international business environment, the Eastern Hub demonstrates unique advantages and has the potential to become an important gateway for Middle Eastern capital entering China and for Chinese enterprises accessing global resources.”
She noted that cooperation between China and the Middle East is expanding beyond traditional sectors such as trade and energy into broader areas including technological innovation, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and the digital economy.
“Looking ahead, ENCOR will continue leveraging its extensive service network and resources across both China and the Middle East to facilitate the two-way flow of capital, businesses, and investment opportunities. We aim to help Middle Eastern companies better understand and enter the Chinese market while supporting Chinese enterprises in capturing the significant growth opportunities emerging across the Gulf region, fostering deeper industrial collaboration and mutually beneficial partnerships.”
In addition, at the recently concluded 12th China (Shanghai) International Technology Fair (CSITF), Shelin Hakki was invited to deliver a keynote presentation during the CSITF Release programme, where she shared insights on Opportunities and Practical Pathways for Chinese Enterprises Expanding into the Middle East. Drawing on recent case studies of Chinese companies operating in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, she highlighted growth opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and cross-border services, while also sharing practical considerations around compliance structures, localization strategies, and ecosystem partnerships.
As China–Middle East economic cooperation enters a new phase of development, demand for professional and internationally integrated business support continues to grow. With its established presence across both markets, extensive project experience, and strong local teams, ENCOR remains committed to serving as a bridge between China and the Middle East—facilitating investment, fostering industrial collaboration, and helping businesses seize global growth opportunities through efficient market access and successful project execution.