Global manufacturers banking on China market

Lars Eckerlein, general manager of ABB (China) Ltd. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Q2. China has been deepening its reform and opening-up policy, particularly at the institutional level, so as to ensure equal treatment and an optimized business environment for foreign companies operating in China, and to persuade more of them to invest in China and benefit from the country's thrust on tech and innovation. How do you view China's efforts? How can China intensify such efforts, particularly in the context of any potential external or internal barriers?

DING: The business environment for foreign enterprises has steadily improved in China. This includes significant progress on IP protection, which will facilitate market access for many products. We are encouraged that China's approach to foreign investment remains positive, and we look forward to continuing to be a part of China's even more open market.

Last year, we expanded production capacity of structural adhesives at our factory in Jinshan, and set up a semiconductor grinding disc production line at our Suzhou plant. This year, we will further invest in China and achieve localizations for projects in the electronics, automotive, safety and protection fields.

ECKERLEIN: China is committed to continuing its path of economic reforms, and has introduced a series of policies in recent years aimed at further improving the business environment for local and international companies.

ABB has been a participant, witness and beneficiary of China's economic reforms. After decades of significant progress, ABB has established a full range of business activities in China, including R&D, manufacturing, sales and service focusing on electrification and automation, with 27 local companies and 15,000 employees across China. To date, ABB has invested 19 billion yuan ($2.64 billion) in China.

KHAOU: China's business environment continues to improve. Markets are opening, regulation is becoming fairer and more equitable, and services for enterprises are also improving. China has introduced many policies to support foreign investment, ensure fair market competition and encourage foreign companies to stay and develop in China.

We adhere to the concept of "In China, For China, With China" for our sustainable development in the country.

GAO: We have witnessed China's great efforts in attracting foreign investment, such as shortening the negative list, further opening up the field of foreign investment access, reforming government functions, and reducing administrative burdens in recent years.

We appreciate that the Chinese government has attached great importance to the development of foreign companies.

GUO: As a key player in the industry, Embraer appreciates the optimized business environment and rich opportunities provided for regional aviation.

The air transport sector makes a major contribution to the economy of China, but the commercial airline industry suffered immensely due to the impact of the pandemic. With opportunities and challenges coexisting, we hope to see China continue to deepen its reform and opening-up policy, so as to provide a level playing field for foreign companies operating in the country. The industry could unite as one to address the challenges and make breakthroughs in the midst of the pandemic.