Editor’s note:
As the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China arrives, South China’s Guangdong Province has vividly captured major headway in the country’s reform and opening up over the past four decades. In light of this special occasion, GD Today’s special program “My Tales, My Guangdong” will be following different stories of expats residing in Guangdong Province. From afar as they come, they will share how they found a place and bonded with this vast, diverse, fast-growing country.
Editor’s note:
As the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China arrives, South China’s Guangdong Province has vividly captured major headway in the country’s reform and opening up over the past four decades. In light of this special occasion, GD Today’s special program “My Tales, My Guangdong” will be following different stories of expats residing in Guangdong Province. From afar as they come, they will share how they found a place and bonded with this vast, diverse, fast-growing country.
Klaus Zenkel, Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in China, stands as one of the most active European entrepreneurs in Guangdong Province. With over two decades of experience in China, Zenkel has cultivated deep ties to the region.
In an exclusive interview with GDToday, he shared his early impressions, saying, “I liked the place as soon as I arrived. If you want to do business, start a company, or conduct R&D, this is the place to go.”
Early days in Shenzhen
Zenkel’s journey in China began in 2002 when he arrived in Shenzhen. Recalling his early days, he reflected on how rapidly the city has changed.
“When I first arrived, there was a lot of construction going on, but it wasn’t as convenient for foreigners. I often had to go to Hong Kong or a Western-style supermarket in Luohu District,” he explained.
Over the years, however, Shenzhen has transformed into a modern, thriving metropolis. “I’ve watched as China built some of the tallest buildings here. It’s been amazing to witness the development happening right in front of me,” Zenkel remarked.
Today, the city boasts robust infrastructure and a favourable business environment that appeals to European companies, including his own.
Building a business in China
Zenkel is the general manager of Imedco Technology (Shenzhen), a company specialising in radio frequency shielding for hospitals with MRI systems. He told us that his company has been operating successfully in Shenzhen for 18 years.
Starting a business in China wasn’t easy at first, Zenkel recalled. “It took quite some time to get all the licenses and win customers. It’s a long process, but now it’s much easier than it was back then.”
Despite rising labor costs, Zenkel is committed to staying in Guangdong, citing the availability of skilled workers as a major advantage.
“Moving to somewhere like Thailand might be cheaper, but the cost of building infrastructure and finding the right talent is still high. We have good people here, and that’s a big value.”
Zenkel also explained his involvement with various business chambers in China. “I joined the European, German, and Swiss Chambers because I’ve been here for so many years. I wanted to use my knowledge and experience to help other members.”
A second home in Guangdong
Zenkel’s attachment to Guangdong goes beyond business.
“Guangdong is a very dynamic place. You can do so many things, and it’s almost like the city is 24 hours active,” he said with enthusiasm.
Cantonese people, from Zenkel’s perspective, are very welcoming. “You can always say, ‘Let’s go have some food,’ and they’re up for it.”
Zenkel also told us about his particular fondness for the famous beef hotpot. “When I have visitors from Switzerland or Europe, I always take them to try it. They love it so much that they ask, ‘How come you only go there once a month? I would go every day!'”
In addition to his business and cultural ties, Zenkel shared a personal story about his dog, Wolfy, whose father was a gift from a long-term business partner in Shenzhen.
“Wolfy’s father was given to me by my customer and friend, a director at the Shenzhen Children’s Hospital. He called one day and said, ‘I have a gift for you.’ When we got to his home, he offered us a puppy from a litter, and that’s how we ended up with Wolfy’s father.”
Looking ahead
With deep roots in Guangdong, Zenkel told us that he has no plans to leave. “This place is like my second home,” he said. “It’s a livable, nice place with a good quality of life. That’s the most important.”
Reporter | Xachary
Cameramen | Shaolong, Grace
Video | Shaolong, Gao Zhihao, Ou Nanying
Video Editor | Xie Miaofeng, Ou Xiaoming, Will
Poster | Mia
Editor | Will, Steven, James