19 Jun 2025
Glasgow Chamber of Commerce has signed five memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with major Chinese institutions during a trade mission to the 11th China Shanghai International Technology Fair (CSITF), including a landmark agreement with the Shanghai Airport Authority aimed at exploring the potential for a direct air route between Shanghai and Glasgow.
The agreement between Glasgow Airport and the Shanghai Airport Authority marks a significant step in strengthening trade, tourism and cultural ties between the two cities. With Glasgow a key gateway to Scotland’s economy, and Shanghai one of the world’s foremost aviation hubs, the route could unlock significant opportunities across sectors, from exports and inward investment to tourism, education and cultural exchange.
The new air link would build on Glasgow’s growing popularity with Chinese visitors and students. Thousands of Chinese students currently study in the city’s universities and colleges, while Glasgow’s rich culture, sporting heritage, whisky industry and access to the Highlands make it a standout destination for tourists.
Glasgow Chamber of Commerce also signed MOUs with four other strategic partners: Shanghai International Technology Import and Export Promotion Centre, Donghua University, Pudong New Area, and the Chaoyang District Committee.
These partnerships form part of a broader five-year plan that focuses on trade, innovation, education, and cultural exchange. During the visit, Chamber also held meetings with representatives from the Songjiang District, the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Education, and the Shanghai Tourism Trade Association, with further collaboration projects now in development.
Richard Muir, deputy chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “It has been an honour for Glasgow to be the guest city at the 11th China Shanghai International Technology Fair. These new agreements build on more than six years of engagement between Glasgow and Shanghai, and we’re now entering a new phase of practical collaboration, particularly around air connectivity, technology partnerships and culture.
“Glasgow is Scotland’s economic powerhouse, accounting for over 30% of business bases and GVA. Our strength in advanced manufacturing, digital technology, precision medicine and green innovation makes us a natural partner for China’s most forward-looking institutions.”
Brian McClean, corporate affairs director of AGS Airports, which owns Glasgow Airport, said: “Thanks to the efforts of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce over many years, the cities of Glasgow and Shanghai, which are the economic powerhouses of our respective countries, have established a strong and lasting partnership.
“There are 10,000 Chinese students in Glasgow’s universities, and almost £800m of air freight is exported through Glasgow Airport to China every year. In renewing our MoU with the Shanghai Airport Authority, which handled over 124 million passengers in 2024 alone, we will work together to help establish a direct air link for which there is clear business and leisure demand.”
Glasgow’s role at the CSITF provided a high-profile platform to showcase its capabilities across key sectors including semiconductors, renewable energy, robotics, fintech, cultural tourism and creative industries. Glasgow’s fast-growing tech ecosystem – the largest in Scotland – supports over 35,000 jobs and generates more than £1 billion in turnover annually.
The delegation was supported by the city’s Innovation Districts and leading businesses, including Peak Scientific, Edrington, University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde, City of Glasgow College, CMS, Savills and Techworks, and SMEs including Emit, Prioto, Regeno and Wootzano. These firms represent Glasgow’s continued legacy of invention, building on a proud history of breakthroughs such as the steam engine, television and telephone.
Glasgow’s cultural offering was also on show, including plans for a three-year tour of Italian treasures from the Glasgow Life Museums’ collection across Chinese cities, and the city’s hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Games and Euro 2028 football tournament.
Their contribution was further celebrated with the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce delegation being awarded two honours for ‘best organising body’ and ‘best use of digital intelligence’ at the conference.
Chamber’s visit follows an extensive collaboration with partners such as the Shanghai Enterprise Confederation, the Intercity Collaboration Department, and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. It aligns closely with national strategies, including the UK Government’s National Wealth Fund partnership and Scotland’s Investment Zone status, which together aim to unlock inclusive economic growth.
