The Chinese company Shang Gong Group has taken over the light aircraft manufacturer Flight Design GmbH, located in Eisenach, Germany. Flight Design develops and produces modern ultralight and sport aircraft made of composite materials. The Shang Gong group, headquartered in Shanghai, manufactures industrial machinery, vehicle equipment, and sport aircraft in China, Europe, and the United States. In addition to Flight Design’s Eisenach headquarters, Shang Gong will also take over the company’s subsidiaries in the Czech Republic and Ukraine and plans invest more capital in the Czech Republic to expand production.
According to the German aviation news site aerotelegraph.com, China has been investing billions of dollars in European companies for many years, securing influence in key industries. Between 2005 and 2023, direct Chinese investment in Europe amounted to approximately $417.2 billion, with $77.2 billion flowing into the transportation sector. Mechanical engineering and technology have also been focal points. Many European companies have been acquired by Chinese enterprises. For example, robotics specialist Kuka is owned by Midea Group, automotive supplier Grammer belongs to Ningbo Jifeng Group, and Irish aircraft leasing provider Avalon is owned by China’s HNA Group. These acquisitions reflect China’s strategic investments in Europe.
Source: Radio France International, April 1, 2025
https://rfi.my/BXo1