“German-language Journalism in China – Reporting on the Edge”

The panel discussion, German-language Journalism in China – Reporting on the Edge, brought together experienced professionals from media, law, and corporate communications to discuss the challenges faced by German-speaking journalists and entrepreneurs reporting on China. The event was moderated by Christian Sommer, CEO and Chairman of the German Centre Shanghai.

The panel included notable speakers such as Dr. Ioana Kraft, Associate Director at X-PM China and former General Manager of the European Chamber of Commerce in China (Shanghai), where she served for 18 years, Carsten Senz, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Huawei, Martin Benninghoff, China correspondent for Handelsblatt, Rainer Burkardt, founder of Burkardt & Partner, and Matthias Kamp, China correspondent for Neue Zürcher Zeitung. They offered valuable insights into how foreign correspondents operate in China and the difficulties they face in delivering balanced, nuanced reports under increasingly complex conditions.

In addition to the media aspect, the panel also addressed the challenges of corporate communications in China. Carsten Senz highlighted how companies must navigate public relations in an environment where political and regulatory challenges can greatly impact messaging and external communications.

The discussion continued and deepened after the panel session in the garden at the German Centre Shanghai, where participants enjoyed snacks and drinks.