Visit to China FAW Group Corporation
The Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, recently conducted an in-depth visit to the China FAW Group Corporation (FAW Group) in Changchun, Jilin province, to better understand the company’s operational strategies and innovations. This visit spanned two days and involved multiple sessions with the management and technical teams of the renowned automobile manufacturer.
Engagement with Management
Upon his arrival in Changchun yesterday afternoon, Professor Sun engaged in a session with FAW Group’s management. This dialogue focused on the company’s emphatic strides in enhancing innovation capabilities and its commitment to core technology research. Executives outlined the significance of developing proprietary brands and emphasized how this aligns with the organization’s broader vision of leading the automotive industry.
Exploration of Research and Development Facilities
The following day, Professor Sun toured the China FAW NBD Headquarters’ research and development institute, exploring various cutting-edge facilities known as the group’s “prosperity factory,” as well as its Cultural Exhibition Hall. During this visit, he learned about groundbreaking advancements in technology, particularly those relating to new energy vehicle models, sophisticated manufacturing processes, and autonomous driving systems associated with the Hongqi brand.
Achievements and Innovations
The discussion further highlighted FAW Group’s innovative accomplishments, particularly its status as a major state-owned enterprise in the automobile sector. As a leading player in China’s automotive industry, the group has positioned itself at the forefront of technological advancements that are setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability in vehicular production.
Strategic Priorities in Hong Kong
Professor Sun elaborated on the strategic priorities outlined in the Hong Kong Innovation & Technology Development Blueprint, which identifies advanced manufacturing, new energy solutions, and innovative industrialization as crucial areas of focus. He emphasized that under the principle of “one country, two systems,” Hong Kong benefits from comprehensive national support while maintaining robust international connections.
Hong Kong as a Gateway for Enterprises
Professor Sun articulated that Hong Kong serves as a vital gateway for both attracting foreign enterprises and assisting Mainland companies in expanding into global markets. This unique position allows Hong Kong to foster an environment conducive to the mutual exchange of innovations, thereby enhancing its role as an ideal platform for Mainland enterprises seeking to explore overseas opportunities.
Future Contributions to the Automotive Sector
As the technological landscape rapidly evolves, Professor Sun expressed optimism regarding Hong Kong’s potential to contribute significantly to the growth of China’s new energy automobile industry. This sentiment reflects a vision for collaboration that transcends regional boundaries and leverages the strengths of various stakeholders within the automotive supply chain.
Upcoming International Automotive Supply Chain Expo
Looking ahead, Professor Sun highlighted the forthcoming 2025 International Automotive Supply Chain Expo (Hong Kong), scheduled to take place at AsiaWorld-Expo from June 12 to 15. He noted that the Innovation, Technology & Industry Bureau would serve as the advising organization for the expo. There is an expectation that this event will not only act as a networking platform for the global automotive supply chain but also facilitate exchanges of information and ideas that could further enhance industrial growth.
Promotion of New Industrialization
The expo aims to showcase cutting-edge technologies while spotlighting the latest achievements in the Mainland’s new energy automobile sector. By promoting new industrialization within Hong Kong, the expo seeks to stimulate interest and investment in high-tech manufacturing and sustainable practices.
Collaboration with Officials
Professor Sun’s visit was accompanied by Ge Ming, the Commissioner for Industry (Innovation & Technology), who played a significant role in the discussions and observations during the trip. Together, they emphasized the importance of collaboration between various levels of government and industry to realize the full potential of Hong Kong’s innovative capabilities.
Conclusion of the Visit
After concluding his visit, Professor Sun returned to Hong Kong this afternoon, carrying with him valuable insights and perspectives on the developments at FAW Group. His interactions with key stakeholders reinforce the enduring relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland, particularly in the context of innovation and technological advancement in the automotive industry.
