Navigating the world of B2B in China is tough business, especially when you are dealing with giant state-owned enterprises. It can be even more difficult when you are a foreigner. As a result, most foreign entrepreneurs focus on the B2C space, yet a few have found the key to creating successful B2B companies.

One of these business people is today's guest, Olivier d'Arros. Olivier started his career in venture capital, and then co-founded 4 technology companies, all in B2B applications. He is now Managing Partner at MAVIE Technologies, an investment banking boutique with a focus on cross-border transactions in healthtech and industry 4.0.

In his many years working in China, Oliver has seen firsthand how B2B has evolved, and there's plenty to learn from his experience. Join us for this week's episode, as we dive into China's B2B landscape.

Show notes:

[2:23] Starting a B2B business in a short period of time
[4:56] Why B2B is an interesting space for startups to explore
[7:46] Increasing competition forcing companies to innovate or die
[9:29] What industries have the most opportunities in China?
[11:28] Why startup founders are afraid of the B2B space
[14:07] Jobs in China at risk of automation
[16:14] Do B2B companies find value in paying for software?
[17:30] Software value and the influx of robotics technology into China
[20:07] Why was it easier to sell to state-owned enterprises?
[22:33] IP protection issues in state-owned enterprises
[26:57] Trends in Chinese technology expanding overseas

Many thanks to our host Oscar Ramos, our guest Olivier d'Arros, editors David and Geep, producers Eva Shi and Matthew Wu, organizer Chinaccelerator and SOSV, and sponsor People Squared. Be sure to check out our website www.chinaccelerator.com

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