Early on, the founder of the company recognized the importance of China as a growth market, and IVM began to engage in entrepreneurial activities in the country. The long-standing, good contacts and connections thus gained were further expanded and the engagement in China strengthened. In 2002, for example, IVM Technical Consultants Wien GmbH acquired shares of Weichai Power Co. Ltd, the largest diesel engine manufacturer in China.

Further investments followed and trading activities were established and expanded: In 1999, IEA International Trading AG, the global trading center and responsible for the financing of the trading business, opened a representative office in Qingdao, China. In 2003, IEA International Trading Qingdao Co. Ltd. was founded to further intensify and keep direct contact with local customers and suppliers. In 2009, the founding of IEA International Trading GmbH followed in Germany.