January 24, 2023. Zurich – CEIBS Switzerland partnered with the Swiss Chinese Chamber of Commerce to host a Chinese New Year celebration at CEIBS Zurich Campus today. Over 100 participants attended to welcome the Year of the Rabbit with talks, networking and entertainment.

The evening started with a discussion on what 2023 holds for China and the world. With China’s zero COVID policy finally coming to an end, guests were keen to hear how business will progress between China and Europe in the year ahead and beyond.

The discussion was hosted by Swiss Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) President Felix Sutter, who was joined by CEIBS Professor Gianfranco Siciliano and China Macro Group Director Michael Setellen to provide valuable insights and thoughts on how 2023 might look for China and those doing business in China.

“The return of Chinese business delegations to Europe after the end of pandemic restrictions will most likely be the biggest economic event of 2023 – a unique opportunity to (re-)connect with Chinese business partners and agree commercial terms that support both sides in overcoming the economic challenges in the respective markets,” Mr. Sutter commented.

The session ended with audience questions and a poll asking participants what they wish for China in 2023. The most common responses were to visit, health and prosperity.

The thought-provoking discussion was followed by entertainment from Qin Sheller Shen, who play the guqin (a traditional Chinese stringed instrument) accompanied by the talented Wendi Li, who sang Guan ju, the first poem from the ancient anthology Shi Jing (Classic of Poetry) and one of the most well-known poems in Chinese literature. Dressed in traditional Chinese outfits, the pair stunned the audience with beautiful music and Ms. Li’s powerful singing voice.

Next, attendees celebrated the Chinese New Year with drinks, food and networking. The atmosphere was one of positivity. Many in the CEIBS and SCCC communities were meeting in person again for the first time in years, while others made new friends, exchanged details and shared business insights.

“It was fantastic to celebrate the New Year with the Swiss Chinese Chamber of Commerce and to share insights on the year ahead with our friends and partners. China’s opening and relaxation of COVID rules is great news for business and we can’t wait to welcome more executives, partners, and alumni to our Zurich campus in 2023. Myself and all the CEIBS team wish everyone a successful and healthy Year of the Rabbit,” CEIBS Zurich CEO Dr. Robert Straw said.