Chongqing - Chongqing Kebao Cable Co., Ltd., founded in 2007 and rooted in Fuling, Chongqing, has established itself as a high-tech enterprise specializing in producing, researching, and designing wires and cables. With nearly two decades of experience, the company made a significant stride in June by securing orders in the ASEAN market.
As a high-tech enterprise grown in Chongqing’s Fuling District, Kebao Cable reached an annual production value exceeding 3 billion yuan last year, with a production capacity of 20,000 kilometers of cables.
Chongqing Kebao Cable Co., Ltd. is located in Chongqing's Fuling District. (Photo/Chongqing Kebao Cable Co., Ltd.)
Securing major clients with tailored solutions
"The domestic construction industry is nearing saturation. Years ago, we turned our focus to the Southeast Asian market," said Zhang Zhexin, General Manager of Kebao Cable. In June, the 2024 China (Chongqing) - ASEAN Electric Power Equipment Manufacturing Industry Conference on Innovation and Cooperation commenced in Fuling; Kebao Cable proactively engaged ASEAN industry associations to discuss collaboration opportunities.
"ASEAN clients prefer to see samples before placing orders and prioritize cost-effectiveness, demanding both quality and affordability," Zhang explained. He organized a factory tour for potential clients, showcasing the production line. "Compared to cables from developed countries like South Korea and the US, our cables are 2-3 dollars cheaper per meter," Zhang noted.
"The service you provide is highly professional, and we regret not discovering it sooner." Recalling the conference, the Thai trade representative praised Kebao, leaving Zhang Zhexin proud. Next, Chongqing Kebao will supply cables for an industrial park in eastern Thailand.
Trade representatives from ASEAN countries visit Kebao Cable's exhibition hall on June 18, 2024. (Photo/People's Government of Fuling District, Chongqing)
In mid-June, the Thai delegation traveled to Fuling to explore trade partners in China's inland regions. Kebao Cable's first meeting with the Thai delegation saw the Thai side present a list of product categories. After understanding the needs, Zhang Zhexin quickly drafted a customized plan focusing on energy efficiency.
The next day, armed with this proposal, Zhang Zhexin met the Thai trade representative again, impressing them. After a productive discussion, Kebao Cable secured the cable supply order.
"With nearly 20 years in this industry, understanding client needs is crucial. Our professionalism is the key to success." Zhang Zhexin secured a place in Southeast Asia's cable market, once dominated by Korean and Western manufacturers.
Promoting Fuling's electrical equipment in Southeast Asia
Following Kebao's lead, many Fuling enterprises target the Southeast Asian electricity market. Electrical equipment manufacturing remains a pillar of Fuling's industry. Last year, the district's electrical equipment industry achieved a comprehensive output value of 2.4 billion yuan, a 40% increase year over year.
While the domestic construction industry is saturated, Southeast Asian countries' demand for electrical equipment continues to grow. Accelerated urbanization and infrastructure development have doubled Southeast Asia's power demand over the past decade, exacerbating supply shortages due to insufficient grid investments.
Since the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) came into effect in 2022, Fuling has seized new opportunities, promoting its pillar industries' cooperation with RCEP countries, which has significantly expanded trade and investment with ASEAN countries. In 2023, Fuling's total exports to ASEAN reached 910 million yuan, a 49.9% year-on-year increase, with the export value of mechanical and electrical products reaching 420 million yuan, up 140%.
(Zuo Liyun, the Chinese reporter from Chongqing Daily, also contributed to this article.)