Chongqing - Foreign enterprises discussed enhancing cooperation with Southwest China's Chongqing during the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Chongqing Investment Promotion from April 1 to April 3.

Leading automakers prefer to collaborate with Chongqing

Takeo Keizo, Managing Director of Sumitomo Electric Trading (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., highlighted the CIIE in Chongqing event provided valuable connections with Chongqing's leading businesses, expressing Sumitomo Electric's intent to deepen collaborations and explore further partnership opportunities.

Established in 1897, Sumitomo Electric is a major global electric wire and cable producer, operating in 40 countries with 414 group companies. Takeo disclosed the company's establishment of two automotive-focused factories in Chongqing and participation in wastewater treatment projects.

Tesla attended the event with Jiang Dan, head of regional public affairs, who expressed optimism about Chongqing's growth potential and praised the city's initiatives, such as the '33618' modern industrial cluster system and involvement in the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor. 

Jiang also highlighted Chongqing's proactive approach to launching initiatives like "first store, first show, first license, and first launch," which Tesla finds very appealing.

"Since 2018, Tesla has planted roots in Chongqing, establishing 18 experience stores and over 50 supercharging stations. The Cybertruck is making its debut in China this year, and Chongqing is among our top eight cities," said Jiang.

Tao Dongming, General Manager of Vibracoustic Chongqing Factory, emphasized Chongqing's role as a crucial hub in the automobile industry, particularly in new energy vehicles. This underscores the city's potential for both growth and collaboration.

Vibracoustic, part of Germany's Freudenberg Group, specializes in automotive damping systems and has already established partnerships with key players like Changan Ford in Chongqing.

"Chongqing's just too good to pass up."

Meanwhile, Wayne Zhu, Vice President, Food & Water Division Manager of Alfa Laval (Shanghai) Technologies Co., Ltd, recognized the CIIE as a critical platform for showcasing products and a valuable window for the global community to learn about China. 

Alfa Laval, a renowned industry leader since 1883 and headquartered in Sweden, has a significant presence in Chongqing across various sectors. Zhu highlighted their involvement in diverse areas, including water treatment, biopharma, food and beverage, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), and energy industries.

Zhu highlighted Chongqing's strategic location, situated at the core of China's Western development drive and centrally positioned within the Belt and Road initiative and the upper region of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. 

"This gives us a killer edge in terms of location," he said. Zhu's bullish on pouring more into Chongqing, convinced by its transport links, economic perks, and all-around vibe for growth in 2024. "Taking everything into account, Chongqing's just too good to pass up," he added.

"Bayer's already making waves in Chongqing's life science sector," said Gao Yong, the Vice President of Public Affairs at Bayer China, expressing his eagerness to explore the city's science and tech scene during the promotion.

Bayer, founded in 1863 in Germany, is a leading force in healthcare and agricultural science. The company has consistently participated in the CIIE and is preparing for its seventh consecutive appearance.

Gao emphasized the favorable business environment in Chongqing, identifying it as a pivotal element in Bayer's strategy for Southwest China.

 "Bayer seeks to enhance its innovation pipeline and facilitate scientific exchange in the area," he stated, highlighting the city's potential as a fertile ground for breakthroughs and collaborative ventures.