Our participation in yesterday's CHKD Forum 2025 at the Ritz-Carlton Berlin made clear that German-Chinese economic relations have reached a decisive turning point. We are observing a fundamental paradigm shift: away from pure trade towards substantial foreign direct investment (FDI) and a far-reaching localisation of value chains. For LÈMANS, this development redefines the requirements for industrial and logistics property.
The high-calibre panel discussion provided deep insights into this operational transformation. Decision-makers such as Xiaohong (Helen) Hou (Managing Director, Chery Europe R&D Center), Dr Liu Qiang (Vice President, Li Auto) and Wenpei (Viola) Lin Brachwitz (Director Public Affairs, CATL) made it clear that the strategy "In Europe, for Europe" is becoming operational reality. The demand profile is shifting significantly: instead of generic logistics space, there is growing demand for specialised greenfield and brownfield developments that can accommodate complex R&D ecosystems and high-tech manufacturing.
This industrial expansion takes place within a demanding regulatory environment. The contributions of Nicolas Zippelius MdB (spokesperson for economic cooperation and development, CDU/CSU) and Dr Andreas Nicolin (Ministerialdirigent, Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, head of the investment screening subdivision) underlined the relevance of the political framework. Successful market entry today requires not only capital but precise navigation of investment screening and geopolitical compliance requirements.
For us at LÈMANS, the conclusion is clear: the market calls for strategic advice that combines technical real estate expertise with a deep understanding of regulatory due diligence. We stand ready to support this new phase of technology-driven investment with tailored space solutions. Our sincere thanks go to the organisers of CHKD and all speakers for this inspiring exchange and the excellent event.