China hydrogen leadership is increasingly attracting global attention, as experts praise its advances in deployment and industrial ecosystem development. Moreover, this recognition emerged during the 2025 European Hydrogen Week in Brussels, where policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators convened to discuss hydrogen energy.
As Europe’s largest dedicated hydrogen forum, the event featured policy conferences, B2B meetings, and innovation discussions on global hydrogen development. Consequently, China’s leading role in hydrogen was highlighted, demonstrating the country’s expanding influence in the sector.
Furthermore, Erwin Penfornis, vice president of Air Liquide’s global hydrogen business, emphasized China’s staged approach to hydrogen energy in passenger vehicles. He explained that this method allows technology testing, encourages competition, and produces effective hydrogen solutions, reinforcing China hydrogen leadership in practical applications.
According to Hydrogen Europe, China ranks first globally in committed hydrogen investments by 2030. Moreover, the country produces the largest share of hydrogen worldwide. In 2022, Chinese authorities reported an annual hydrogen output of about 33 million tonnes, underscoring China’s leading position in hydrogen and reflecting rapid industrial growth.
Experts also highlighted the global competitiveness of Chinese electrolyzers. Khaled Nageib, CEO of Egypt Hydrogen, said China’s electrolyzers match European quality while offering cost advantages. Moreover, close collaboration between universities, research institutes, and businesses accelerates technological upgrades, reinforcing China hydrogen leadership.
Meanwhile, Willem-Jeroen Stevens of Clear in the Netherlands highlighted China’s industrial “valley” model. In this system, connected regions host complete hydrogen supply chains, which not only reduce costs but also enhance research and production efficiency, thereby showcasing China’s leadership in hydrogen operations.
Looking ahead, China aims to establish a full industrial layout and expand renewable hydrogen production by 2030. These steps support carbon peaking goals, and in turn, strengthen China’s global energy strategy, further cementing China hydrogen leadership.
Eugene McKenna, senior vice president at Johnson Matthey, encouraged European stakeholders to study China’s progress firsthand. He noted that China serves as a test case for combining strategy with execution, exemplifying China hydrogen leadership.
Consequently, analysts expect China hydrogen leadership to continue driving innovation, expanding industrial capacity, and influencing global renewable energy trends. With sustained investment and strong policy support, China is positioned as a model for scalable, sustainable hydrogen development.
