UK Alumni Industry Event: China Outbound - Technology Companies Going Global

At the event, industry experts and alumni representatives shared insights on investment trends, market and policy analysis, best practices for international expansion in the tech sector, and more. They engaged in deep discussions about the challenges and opportunities faced by technology companies during their globalisation process, as well as how to implement investment and business strategies through a global talent pool and an outstanding international organisational structure. These discussions facilitated resource linkage and cooperation among all parties involved.
Kiran Patel, Senior Director at CBBC, provided a comprehensive analysis of the UK's economic and political landscape. He highlighted the UK's competitive advantages, including low business tax rates, a stable legal system, and London’s status as a financial hub. Kiran also addressed potential geopolitical risks and advised businesses to familiarise themselves with local legal, tax, and cultural norms to ensure successful market entry. He mentioned the positive outlook for UK-China relations, noting that through enhanced economic dialogue, both sides are poised to achieve secure, resilient growth as well as high-quality development. Kiran shared key sectors of interest for Chinese investors, such as renewable energy, tech manufacturing, fintech, and healthcare, and mentioned the importance of integrating ESG strategies. He concluded by introducing the UK Investment Guide, offering further insights into the UK’s business opportunities.
Bonnie Hua, Vice President, Marketing at London and Partners, presented on “London: Building a Global Innovation Community”, highlighting London’s strengths in artificial intelligence (AI). As the world’s second-largest AI hub, London offers rich data resources, a diverse talent pool, and top-tier research institutions. She explained how the city attracts global businesses through open data platforms, tax incentives, and a strong focus on AI ethics and regulation. Bonnie also outlined London and Partners’ support for international businesses, focusing on AI, fintech, SaaS, energy efficiency, and life sciences. She also highlighted the role of platforms like London Tech Week in promoting international business development: encouraging Chinese enterprises to participate in such events to expand their networks and establish connections in London.
Osborn Hou, Vice President of TTC, introduced the innovation of global talent ecosystems for tech companies, and the role of AI in transforming talent recruitment process for tech companies. He explained that the recruitment market still holds considerable potential, as traditional services are often unable to fully meet the demand emerging in new technological sectors. Osborn also emphasised the importance of a global talent strategy for tech companies, particularly AI startups. He recommended that companies establish a global vision from the outset, partnering with those already abroad to leverage resources and facilitate international growth. TTC supports this by connecting businesses with service organisations, forming startup teams, and providing business solutions.
Following the keynote speeches, panelists delved into the practical aspects of global expansion. Topics such as operational compliance, talent management, risk management, and cultural influences.
Glory Guan, Legal Director at Lotus Tech, former student of the University of Glasgow, advised companies investing in the UK to familiarise themselves with relevant regulations beforehand to ensure compliance and avoid legal risks and fines. She also recommended that businesses protect their legal rights by keeping records of any errors or obstacles encountered during business operations, which could help prevent future litigation or arbitration challenges due to a lack of evidence.
Stella Zhang, Senior HR Director at CBBC member company, Westwell Technology, shared key talent and organisational strategies for businesses going global. She highlighted the need for different talent configurations at each development stage - from sales and market expansion in the early phase to project delivery in the middle phase and team management in the end phase. Stella recommended identifying local partners early to ensure effective recruitment and management. Additionally, she encouraged businesses to join industry ecosystems and collaborate with upstream and downstream enterprises to support their international expansion.
Bonnie Hua discussed London and Partners' role in helping businesses build commercial networks, highlighting the importance of government introductions and resource matchmaking. She recommended participating in trade shows and association of commerce activities to meet local partners and clients. With London’s large pool of international students, businesses can collaborate with universities to attract and nurture talent. Bonnie also highlighted the need for companies expanding into the UK to engage with industry associations, using Tencent Games' partnership with the UK Interactive Entertainment (UKIE) as an example of how even large companies benefit from such platforms.
Osborn Hou concluded his remarks by discussing the global talent flow dynamics and advising tech companies to implement a global talent strategy. He highlighted that companies need to understand local talent demands and recruitment channels in their target markets. By collaborating with local recruitment agencies, they can improve recruitment efficiency. AI technology is transforming global recruitment, and Osborn explained that TTC uses AI technology to match businesses with the right candidates, ensuring a robust talent strategy in companies’ global expansion plans.
The forum brought together a large audience who expressed a keen interest in the UK market. Looking ahead, CBBC will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to host more diverse forums and events, further supporting the globalisation of tech companies.