Most of the European maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm has earliness, density-tolerance and resistance to lodging. Introgression of these elite germplasm is an effective approach to broadening the genetic base of Chinese germplasm. By analyzing and summarizing general combining ability effects and heterosis responses among maize populations from the southwest, southeast and northern Europe, 23 elite maize populations were identified, including ten Spain populations, six French populations, two Swiss populations, and five Portugal populations. Based on adaptation improvement and heterosis responses, we suggest that Enano Norte?o/Vasco, EZS22 could be introgressed into Chinese heterotic group A, and Ain, Alegia, Bade, Berrobi, Lazkano, Tuy introgressed into Chinese heterotic group B to form and improve semi-exotic populations or pools, respectively, in order to broaden the Chinese maize germplasm base.