Cultural cooperation China-Netherlands 2025-2028

Looking back

Buildiing up upon decades of endeavour of cultural exchange and cooperation, Dutch art, creativity and innovation are widely recognised across China, in addition to Rembrandt, Van Gogh and the windmills and tulips. The Netherlands had become a popular destination for young creatives to pursue their interests and study. The number of Dutch cultural activities in China has been among the top 10 globally, except the ‘Covid years’.  

In 2020, cultural cooperation between the Netherlands and China faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns and border closures, severely impacting international collaborations. Many planned cultural activities were either canceled or transitioned to online formats such as:

• Netherlands Cultural Institute Online (NCIO): Launched on Tencent Art Channel, NCIO presented over seventy exclusive Dutch art programs, attracting more than five million visitors who engaged with Dutch music, dance, design programs, artist presentations, museum visits, and streaming activities.  
• NCIO Live: This platform showcased pre-recorded programs in concert, theater, and cinema halls across China. Notably, performances by the Dutch National Opera, such as Le Nozze di Figaro and Tosca, played to full houses. Additionally, the theater film Uncle Vanya by Club Guy & Roni was featured at the Wuzhen International Theater Festival.  

Still artists and performers who had previously been active in China were hesitant to return even after restrictions were lifted in late 2022. To revitalize cultural exchanges, the Dutch embassy network initiated several initiatives in collaboration with external experts:

• NL Imagined Photography Exhibition: Featuring works and photo books by Dutch photographers like Erwin Olaf, Viviane Sassen, and Hans Eijkelboom, this exhibition toured cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. It received positive reviews and facilitated online dialogues with participating photographers.
• Netherlands Film Festival (NLFF): Debuting in Beijing in 2023, the festival screened 10 movies and attracted full audiences in public cinemas in ten different cities. Best Dutch Book Design Project: Showcasing winners of the Dutch Best Designed Books, this project was displayed in universities, bookstores, and at book fairs during 2023 and 2024.
• Cultural Crossings: started in 2024, these dialogues foster thought-provoking exchanges between artists and engaged audiences to explore global issues through art and culture.
• Guest Countryship at Business of Design Week 2023: The Netherlands was honored at this event in Hong Kong, presenting the theme "Designing Circularity," which also spurred a trade mission and discussions on long-term collaborations.  
• EUNIC Beijing Cluster Chairmanship: In 2022, the Netherlands chaired the European Union National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC) Beijing cluster. This tenure led to successful festivals in Shanghai and Beijing focusing on the intersection of culture and physical or mental disabilities.

Prospect 2025-2028

Due to increasing complexity, a strong cultural policy is necessary to support the implementation of Dutch foreign policy in China. Expressions of art and culture can be a powerful alternative for conveying views when diplomatic dialogues are less accessible. Moreover, China is still an interesting large market and inspiration for the Dutch art and creative sectors. China is thus rightly a priority country for the International Cultural Policy of the Netherlands (ICP) 2025-2028. In 2025, renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cultural cooperation between the two countries will be signed on 1 April, which provides a general framework for bilateral cultural relations. All the ICP stakeholders will stimulate high-quality representation of Dutch arts and culture in China, which reflects reciprocity, diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and equity, distinguishing Dutch culture through dialogue and interactive engagement; at the same time continuously foster partnerships with Chinese counterparts.

To extend and localise the 3 policy objectives defined by the ICP 2025-2028 in China, the following aspects are outlined.

1. Boosting Economic & Social Value

   Supporting Dutch art and creative sectors in China to enhance economic and social impact. Eligible representatives projects or events may receive financial or logistical support.

2. Strengthening Bilateral Relations & Dutch Reputation

   Promoting cultural exchange to support Dutch foreign policy and reputation. This includes projects on cultural heritage and dialogues on equality, sustainability, and digitalization.

3. Innovative & Inclusive Solutions (SDGs)

   Encouraging select artists and creatives to develop impactful solutions for global challenges. These projects enhance mutual understanding and are showcased across key Chinese regions. In the period 2025-2028, the Netherlands will profile itself more emphatically on diversity & inclusion, sustainability, fair pay, and digitalization. These concepts will run like a common thread through the expressions of Dutch art and cultural activities.

All cultural disciplines contribute significantly to achieving international cultural policy objectives. Below an updated discipline scan for the coming policy period.

Visual Arts

There is high demand for visual arts in China, supported by a large infrastructure that accommodates both established and emerging artists. Many Dutch institutions are active in this sector. Numerous new museums, though ambitious, often lack substantial collections and experience, with budgets influenced by the current economic climate.

Dutch Design

Dutch designers and institutions specializing in industrial, fashion, urban, and gaming design have a strong reputation in China. Major cities host Design Weeks and offer design courses where Dutch designers frequently serve as guest lecturers.

Architecture

China features several iconic structures designed by Dutch architects, such as the Canton Tower in Guangzhou (IBA) and the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing (OMA). Dutch architects continue to thrive, particularly in sustainable building projects.

Performing Arts

The focus is on small-scale, young Dutch talent ready for international exposure, especially in non-verbal productions like music, dance, or their crossovers. Youth and family-oriented offerings are prioritized due to easier navigation through censorship. There is significant interest in classical music, and opportunities exist for DJs and music-tech collaborations, given rapid growth and popularity.

Film

There is a growing demand for youth films, supported by a robust infrastructure and an increasing number of successful Dutch offerings. While censorship limits market expansion, film remains excellent for cultural diplomacy. Recently the Dutch-Chinese co-production treaty (signed in 2015) have yielded two films, highlighting the importance of focusing on this sector and fostering ties with influential partners.

Photography

Opportunities in photography are emerging, supported by new museums and festivals. Despite strict censorship, both photojournalism and art photography are gaining attention. Collaborations with the strong Dutch photography sector are well-suited for thematic exhibitions accompanied by supporting programs.

Cultural Heritage  

Cultural heritage is a top priority for the Chinese government, with a solid infrastructure and existing partnerships. Exploring opportunities in historical city centers, maritime archaeology, and digital heritage is worthwhile, always in collaboration with Chinese partners to facilitate knowledge sharing and research.

Literature

The market for children's literature, cookbooks, and art books is increasingly restricted. However, the Dutch diplomatic network remains committed to promoting Dutch language and its expressions, employing creative methods to make Dutch literature accessible. An example is the Poetry Booth, where AI presents poetry based on works by Dutch and Chinese writers.

Information & advice  

Would you like to receive more information regarding opportunities for cultural exchange China? Feel free to contact our advisor Ian Yang with your questions.  

The Diplomatic Network of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China  

In the new policy period 2025-2028, the Dutch diplomatic network in China (the Embassy in Beijing and three Consulate Generales in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong) and all other stakeholders, including DutchCulture, will continue to support and facilitate the Dutch cultural sector in their endeavours with Chinese partners. Open to collaboration, but also aware of the challenges.  

Tools for Achieving Objectives

• Expert Advice: A dedicated team provides insights on cultural developments to Dutch arts, culture, and creative sectors.
• Visitor’s Program: Organizing trips for Chinese arts and cultural practitioners and influencers to connect with potential cultural partners.
• Cultural Toolkits: Ready-to-use event formats and key messages for cultural programs across China.
• Financial Support: Modest grants help Dutch artists overcome barriers, e.g., through open calls.
• Cultural Events: Supporting or organizing cultural presentations when they align with broader interests, like film screenings or Dutch trade events.
• Training: Sessions on public diplomacy, strategic communication, stakeholder management, and digital tools.
• Culture & Communication Days: Knowledge-sharing and strategy sessions with experts and representatives.
• Online & Social Media: Utilizing Instagram and the "Netherlands and You" website to promote Dutch culture and engage the Chinese audience.