Execs say it is evolving beyond simple connectivity to emphasize innovation

With technological innovation playing an increasingly integral role in China's supply chain operation, foreign firms will build more local partnerships in high-end manufacturing, modern services and consumer goods, senior executives from such corporations said on Thursday.

At the ongoing third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, they said China's supply chain is evolving beyond simple connectivity to emphasize greater coordination, development and innovation.

Held from Wednesday to Sunday, the third edition of CISCE has brought together more than 650 companies and institutions from 75 countries and regions, said the Beijing-based China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, organizer of the expo.

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The proportion of overseas exhibitors increased from 32 percent at the second edition to 35 percent this year — an indication of enduring business interest in the face of rising geopolitical and economic headwinds.

German industrial conglomerate Bosch Group, a three-time participant at CISCE, showcased locally driven innovations in intelligent and electrified technologies across areas such as energy and power systems, motion control and driver assistance at the event this year.

Xu Daquan, president of Bosch China, said that at a critical juncture in the accelerated restructuring of the global automotive supply chain, adhering to open cooperation and strengthening local manufacturing and innovation capabilities are essential for achieving long-term growth.

"Bosch will continue to work with its Chinese partners to build a more resilient, agile and globally oriented smart mobility supply ecosystem," said Xu.

Driven by technology shifts and competition, China's fast-evolving auto sector leads in electrification and smart mobility, fueled by innovation and rapid consumer adoption of new technologies, said the German company.

Another active multinational presence at the expo is Federal Express Corp, the United States-based express transportation company and also a third-time CISCE participant. It presented a visually engaging booth at the trade show, featuring a diverse array of images and multimedia content.

"As an important platform for promoting international supply chain connectivity, CISCE offers a valuable opportunity for us to deepen cooperation with industry and supply chain partners," said Poh-Yian Koh, president of FedEx China, adding the company completed the upgrade of its international export services in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, earlier this week.

FedEx looks forward to working together with all parties to build a stable, efficient, sustainable and intelligent supply chain network, injecting sustained momentum into the smooth operation of the economy and trade for China and the world, she said.

Joining the expanding roster of global participants, French cosmetics company L'Oreal Group made its debut at this year's CISCE, highlighting innovations in the beauty supply chain.

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Its exhibit emphasized smart, consumer-centric systems, open ecosystem collaboration, and the role of Chinese innovation in driving global expansion and delivering localized solutions worldwide.

Chen Jiaqi, director of corporate affairs and engagement at L'Oreal China, said that the ever-evolving demands of Chinese consumers are pushing companies to step up innovation and optimize the entire value chain, from production and logistics to customer service.

"In this process, many new technologies and business models co-created with Chinese supply chain partners have been introduced to the global stage, serving consumers worldwide," said Chen.

Contact the writer at zhongnan@chinadaily.com.cn