Simon Lichtenberg, a Danish entrepreneur and long-term Shanghai resident, has been awarded the title of Honorary Citizen of Shanghai in recognition of his 33 years of unwavering commitment to fostering business collaboration and cultural exchange between China and Europe. The honor was bestowed upon him on Sept 29.

Lichtenberg's connection to Shanghai goes beyond business. His wife is Shanghainese, and his children were born and raised in the city.

"In my heart and my mind, I am Shanghainese," Lichtenberg said.

He first arrived in Shanghai in 1987 as one of the first international students at Fudan University, where he studied Chinese language and culture.

Inspired by the city's vitality and potential, he returned in 1993 and established his own business two years later, which has grown into today's Trayton Group. The business initially focused on importing furniture and later expanded into design and retail, bringing a touch of Nordic lifestyle to Chinese consumers.

His business journey mirrors Shanghai's economic transformation. When he launched his enterprise, he was one of the seven Danes in the city.

Lichtenberg described the development of Shanghai as extraordinary. "There's a huge difference," he said. "When I came, processes were new and sometimes unclear. Today, there's a strong focus on making it easy for foreign companies to enter and register quickly."

Over the years, Lichtenberg has also played an active role in strengthening economic ties between Shanghai and international partners.

As a member of the Danish Chamber of Commerce in China, he has worked to advise the government on improving the business environment and supporting foreign enterprises in adapting to and thriving in the local market.

Before becoming an Honorary Citizen of Shanghai, Lichtenberg was recognized with the Shanghai Magnolia Silver Award in 2006 and the Magnolia Gold Award in 2019.

The title of Honorary Citizen of Shanghai represents the highest honor the city confers upon an expatriate. It has been awarded to only 51 individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Shanghai's development and global stature.

Lichtenberg expressed his deep appreciation for the honor, describing it as a testament to Shanghai's openness and inclusiveness.

Despite challenges, Lichtenberg remains bullish on China's long-term economic prospects and is committed to expanding his company's presence in the Chinese market.

"The goal is for more than half of our business to be in China eventually," he said. "Producing and selling in China is the most secure strategy."

While continuing his work with international business organizations, he particularly emphasized the importance of helping young international professionals understand and experience Shanghai firsthand.

"I think the most important first step is to come and see and understand and with their own eyes," he said.