Liverpool hosts 50-strong delegation from China’s Shandong Province as it looks to expand trade, attract investment and develop international innovation partnerships. Tony McDonough reports
Senior government and business leaders from China’s Shandong Province explored partnerships with Liverpool City Region last week across life sciences, maritime industries, logistics, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure.
Led by Shandong Vice Governor Sun Ximin, the delegation included more than 30 senior executives alongside government and academic leaders. They met representatives from Liverpool City Council, city region partners, universities and businesses on Thursday, 10 September.
The Shandong-Liverpool Industrial Cooperation Dialogue focused on commercial opportunities in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, maritime innovation, ports and logistics, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure investment and clean growth.
The visit builds on existing links in ports, logistics, sport and advanced manufacturing.
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The University of Liverpool and Shandong First Medical University have also established a joint research laboratory focused on adverse drug reactions, securing more than £2 million in research funding. Since 2025, between 30 and 50 medical students from Shandong have studied in Liverpool each year.
The programme provided a platform to connect businesses, identify investable projects and support further trade and inward investment across Liverpool City Region.
Councillor Nick Small, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, said: “Liverpool has always been an outward-looking city built on international connections, trade and innovation.
“We are delighted to welcome Vice Governor Sun and the Shandong delegation to Liverpool and to showcase the many strengths that make our city an attractive place to invest, collaborate and do business.
“Shandong is one of China’s leading economic regions and there is significant potential for both sides to deepen cooperation in areas such as life sciences, advanced manufacturing, maritime industries, logistics and innovation.
“This visit provides an important opportunity to build on existing relationships, create new connections and identify opportunities that can deliver long-term economic benefits for Liverpool, Shandong and our respective business communities.”