John Lin

About John Lin

John Lin is a board member of the Netherlands China Business Council, columnist for BusinessWise, Twinkle Magazine, and De Ondernemer, and a highly sought-after speaker on Chinese innovation and digitalization. As a Dutch-Chinese entrepreneur, he grew up in a Chinese-Dutch family and has a unique insight into the opportunities that arise at the intersection of two cultures. His experience and expertise make him the connecting link between the fast-paced technological East and traditional Western Europe.

Europe is becoming a museum, why we need to learn from China now,

China is no longer just the land of cheap labor and copies. Companies like BYD, Xiaomi, and TikTok have become global players and leaders in innovation and technological advancement. John urgently emphasizes that if Europe does not quickly and strategically learn from these developments, it risks becoming the museum of the world within twenty years. His message: understanding, being open to, and embracing Chinese entrepreneurship is essential to remain internationally relevant.

From Strategy at bol.com to Inspiring about China

After studying Innovation Management at Erasmus University and a study period at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, John worked at bol.com as Strategy & Business Developer and Lead Ecosystem Developer. During his time there, he applied successful Chinese platform strategies to the Dutch market and organized inspirational trips for the bol.com management to China. Today, he inspires various organizations and also organizes trips for entrepreneurs, allowing them to experience firsthand how China innovates and grows on a large scale.

Breaking Prejudices, Seizing Opportunities

John helps European companies and audiences better understand the rapid digital developments in China and translates these insights into concrete strategies. Chinese companies are ready to internationalize and are increasingly focusing on Europe. John encourages not to miss these opportunities but to seize them by strengthening collaboration. With compelling examples, sharp analyses, and a touch of humor, his mission is clear: to bring East and West closer together and make Dutch and European companies future-proof.