This week we continue our series on what HTWG Asian Studies & Management/China students. This week I spoke with Jakob Xu Xiao, who is currently interning at AHK Greater China in Shanghai, China.

About the company:

AHK Greater China is part of the global network of the German Chambers of Commerce (Deutsche Auslandshandelskammer). As the official institution for the promotion of German foreign trades, its main goal is to facilitate bilateral trades and investments between Germany and China by providing consulting, support, and representation for German companies seeking to establish or expand their businesses in China.

So, what do you do at your internship?

As an intern in the Government Affairs & Advocacy Department, my primary responsibility is to monitor relevant policies on foreign affairs released by the Chinese government in real-time. My team and I analyze these policies that may impact German companies and compile our findings into reports for publication. Additionally, another aspect of my work involves attending and documenting meetings between AHK, German enterprises, and the Chinese government. I am also tasked with preparing knowledge briefings related to Chinese policies for AHK internal personnel before important meetings.

How did you find this internship?

I learned of AHK during my time in Constance and subsequently submitted my application through their official website.

Do you use Chinese in your work?

Due to the nature of my work, I need to use Chinese, German, and English daily. One challenging aspect for me is that I need to read numerous documents related to policies and economic data released by the Chinese government every day. These documents contain various political terms, and I must interpret each statement carefully.

What do you love most about Shanghai?

There are two main reasons why I like Shanghai. Firstly, Shanghai offers ample opportunities and values efficiency; as long as you work hard, you will see rewards. Secondly, Shanghai is inclusive and diverse, allowing me the freedom to choose my lifestyle, whether it is Eastern or Western, traditional or modern—everything is available here.

Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Constanze Wang (Head of Government Affairs & Advocacy) for the opportunities and support she has provided during my internship.

This week, we spoke with Cinthya Rodriguez, who’s currently interning at Würth Industry Service Taiwan in Taipei.

About the company:

Würth Industry Service Taiwan is a professional distributor of industrial fasteners and assembly components, offering integrated logistics and supply chain solutions. As part of the global Würth Group, it supports manufacturers in Taiwan with efficient C-Parts management tailored for Industry 4.0.

So, what do you do at your internship?

 "I’m an intern on the Supply Chain Management Team. My tasks include running MRP processes in SAP, managing purchasing activities, and handling import shipments — everything from shipment tracking to customs declarations — from our foreign Suppliers (mainly Germany). I also stay in close communication with suppliers and contribute to data analytics projects."

How did you find this internship?

 "I discovered the opportunity through the HTWG AS alumni network. A former student who interned here presented his experience during one of our AS-Dialog sessions."

Do you use Chinese in your work?

 "Yes, I use Chinese daily. Customs declarations and many forms are in Chinese or bilingual. I also use it to communicate with colleagues who don't speak English and when receiving emails that are entirely in Chinese."

What do you love most about Taipei?

 "Before moving to Taipei, I lived in Kaohsiung, where I completed an intensive Chinese language program. The two cities have very different vibes — Kaohsiung is hotter and more humid, and most people get around by scooter or car. In contrast, Taipei has a much more convenient public transportation system, including buses, MRT, and local trains. I really enjoy how vibrant Taipei is. I love the beautiful parks and green spaces throughout the city, its active international community as well as the variety of events happening all the time.”

Cinthya would like to thank the amazing people at Würth: Björn Burg (Managing Director), Iris Tsai (SCM Manager), Russell Cheng (Sales Director), Ann Sebastian (Manager of Marketing & Communications for Asia Pacific and Africa) and the entire Supply Chain Management Team!

This week, I spoke with Kateryna Sergiivna Lopushenko, who’s doing the International Management Asia-Europe Master at HTWG and interning at Steinbeis Sustainable Technology and Management (Beijing) Co., Ltd in Beijing, China.

About the company:

Steinbeis Sustainable Technology Management (Beijing) Co., Ltd. (SUTM China) is the Chinese subsidiary of SUTM Steinbeis Center of Sustainable Technology and Management GmbH, Germany. Established in February 2024, SUTM China is dedicated to promoting international technology transfer and innovation cooperation between China and global partners.

Leveraging the global Steinbeis network, SUTM China supports Chinese governments and enterprises by offering professional services in four key areas: collaborative innovation, consulting, education and training, and investment. Its mission is to help China build an international science and innovation ecosystem while assisting Chinese companies in global expansion.

Its long-term goal is to be a strategic bridge connecting Chinese and international innovation ecosystems—supporting the globalization of Chinese enterprises and assisting German technology companies and startups in entering the Chinese market.

So, what do you do at your internship?

As an intern in Technology Transfer Management and Innovation Services, my daily work involves extensive research on a wide range of topics. When clients require specific information, such as industry insights, relevant policies, or innovative projects, I gather and present the necessary data. I also help my colleagues stay updated on emerging trends and newcomers in key industries by sharing the latest developments and innovations.

Additionally, I regularly assist with translations between German, English, and Chinese to ensure that important information is accessible across languages.

A highlight of my internship has been the opportunity to present our company’s projects at two conferences, here in Beijing, as well as in Wuhan, which has been both exciting and a valuable experience for my personal and professional development.

Furthermore, I support the company in welcoming and accompanying international delegations, such as the recent visit from HTWG Konstanz and the University of Konstanz organized by @Dr. Helena Obendiek, which allows me to actively contribute to international exchange and cooperation, while also meeting from experts from around the world.

How did you find this internship?

Prof. Dr. Sarah Hanisch introduced me to this opportunity. After learning more about the company, I became very interested and decided to apply.

Do you use Chinese in your work?

Since we work extensively with Chinese clients, I often use written Chinese for research reports and documentation. In daily work, using Chinese also helps improve efficiency when discussing tasks, although it's not strictly necessary—most of my colleagues speak either German or English. To ensure clear communication, we often switch between languages as needed.

What do you love most about Beijing?

I really enjoy living in Beijing because the city has such a rich culture, there’s always something fascinating to explore, from ancient temples and museums to vibrant art districts. You can truly feel the energy of a global capital, while also finding peaceful parks and historic neighborhoods to relax in. It’s also a great environment to improve my Chinese in everyday life.