The suitcases are unpacked, and the Van Thiel Transport team looks back on an impressive and informative trip to Shenzhen. Together with Nederland Distributieland, we participated in the CILF, one of the largest logistics fairs in Asia. Not only the fair, but also our experience in China itself made a deep impression: an inspiring culture, a city that amazes, and new insights that we would like to share.
A Special Introduction to China
For many of us, it was our first encounter with China, and it made a deep impression. We were immediately struck by how friendly and respectful people treat each other. The cleanliness of the city and the sheer scale of its organization were also impressive. Shenzhen, a huge city with millions of inhabitants, is modern, clean, and remarkably organized. From electric vehicles to an impressively organized streetscape: it demonstrates just how progressive China is. During a traditional tea ceremony and dinner, we discovered not only Chinese cuisine but also the importance of hospitality and rituals in business.
The trade fair: sharing knowledge and connecting
The trade fair was briefly delayed due to a typhoon, but Van Thiel Transport nevertheless got off to an energetic and enterprising start. We spoke directly with potential clients and fellow service providers in the sector about topics such as logistics challenges between Asia and Europe. During the NDL networking receptions, there were also inspiring conversations that highlighted the value of collaboration. What struck us was China’s enormous technical advantage in electric vehicles and automation in logistics. A concrete example is urban distribution using autonomous vehicles. This is already visible on the streets of Shenzhen today.
Business insights: trade between China and the Netherlands
The trade fair days were all about knowledge sharing, networking, and exploring new opportunities. What stood out to us and what we’ll take away:
- A trade relationship with China starts with competitive prices, but grows on the foundation of cooperation and trust.
- The Netherlands is and remains the logistics gateway to Europe, something our Chinese partners clearly recognized.
- Technology and innovation are playing an increasingly important role in the cooperation between China and the Netherlands. Importing goods remains dominant, but the role of Dutch exports of, for example, high-tech products remains as valuable as ever.
- Fast delivery times, vehicle volumes, and smooth customs clearance remain decisive in discussions with Chinese partners.
- The focus in China is strongly on electric and autonomous vehicles. Developments here are much more advanced than in Europe.
Collaboration with China and the future
This trip was more than just a trade fair visit. For our team, it also meant personal development and a broader perspective on international cooperation. By traveling to China and making genuine connections there, we demonstrate our seriousness about collaboration. This is appreciated and opens doors for stronger and more sustainable collaboration. The contacts we made are promising. Our focus now is on following up and expanding these relationships.
Personal: memorable moments
China surprises us every day. From the overwhelming order and cleanliness to the special evening with traditional “Chinese wine.” During a dinner with a Chinese client, we were introduced to “Chinese wine”: a 53% alcohol drink traditionally shared in several rounds.
Shenzhen turned out to be a surprisingly clean and green city: the entire city is free of clutter. Everything is clean and tidy. Because 80% of transport is electric, smog is a thing of the past. Everything in China is grander: from the size of the city to the masses of people on the road every day, something we don’t experience in the Netherlands.
What can you expect from us?
For our clients and partners, this means we return with even more knowledge, experience, and energy. We’ve learned how the Chinese think and act, and we’ll take these insights with us. This also means that in the future, we’ll be more visible at international events to strengthen and expand our network and further develop our services.
A special thank you to NDL (Netherlands Distribution Country), who supported us during the trade fair and networking activities. Thanks to you, we were able to effectively promote our services to international visitors and local businesses.
In short: a special trip to Shenzhen
The CILF in Shenzhen was a special journey for Van Thiel Transport, full of insights, encounters, and inspiration. With renewed energy and fresh inspiration, we are setting a course for the future: ready to seize new opportunities and grow together with you.
Curious about what these new insights can mean for your logistics challenges? Feel free to contact us; we’re happy to brainstorm with you.