Belt and Road Weekly NO. 16.

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Content
On the Cover……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
AI accelerates empowering various industries …………………………………………………………………3
“Small and beautiful” county tourism gains popularity, more potential awaits unleashed……..5
Policy………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
Policy Brief …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………6
Int’l tourists gain better travel experience with China’s preferential measures……………………..8
China unveils plan to galvanize NEV uptake in rural areas……………………………………………..10
Business…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..11
Business Brief — Chinese Enterprises ………………………………………………………………………….. 11
Feature: Chinese green business offers lifelong skills, income to Kenyan youth ………………. 12
Business Brief — Foreign Enterprises ……………………………………………………………………………14
Journey of durians from Thai orchards to Chinese markets ……………………………………………..15
Projects……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………17
Projects Brief ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 17
Viewpoints……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….18
New China-Spain train route boosts trade links ……………………………………………………………..18
Senj Wind Farm “model of cooperation” between China and Croatia, says mayor ……………. 19
Interview: To invest in China is to invest in the future, says L’Oreal executive ………………….20
Industries………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..21
China’s booming new energy industry a boon for the world …………………………………………… 21 Transformative AI makes Chinese automobiles smarter ………………………………………………….23 The power source of China’s new energy industry………………………………………………………… 25
Sino-British educational cooperation is in full swing …………………………………………………….. 26
Economy & Data……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..27
Economy and Data Brief ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 27 China speeds up digital transformation of manufacturing sector…………………………………….. 28
Improving key indicators signal positive outlook for China’s economy …………………………….30
On the Cover
AI accelerates empowering various industries

Journalists interact with a bionic humanoid robot at the Zhongguancun International Innovation Center, new venue for Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum), in Beijing, capital of China, April 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)
BEIJING — China’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is witnessing advancements, with the number of enterprises in the field topping 4,500, according to data recently released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), reported Economic Daily.
Innovative breakthroughs such as intelligent chips and general large models are emerging rapidly. The development of intelligent infrastructure continues to gain momentum, with construction of digital workshops and smart factories accelerating, laying a solid foundation for the integration of AI into the new landscape of industrialization.
Making full use of China’s complete industrial system, vast industrial scale and diverse application scenarios, the country is promoting deep integration of AI with manufacturing, according to Tao Qing, head of the bureau for operation, monitoring and coordination with the MIIT.
Prioritizing intelligent manufacturing and meeting demands for scenario application, the goal is to propel intelligent transformation of the manufacturing sector, providing new impetus for high-quality development, said Tao.
— Accelerating breakthroughs in key technologies
AI stands as a strategical technology guiding the new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, as well as a vital impetus for new industrialization. Accelerating the breakthroughs in key fundamental technologies of AI is essential to empowering its application.
Efforts should be made to promote technologies and products such as intelligent chips, large models that rely on basic technologies of algorithms and computing power, said Tao, noting the need to speed up the deployment of intelligent Internet of Things (IoT) terminals and industrial clouds to enhance computing power supply and operational management capabilities of manufacturing.
It is also important to guide swift development of globally competitive large models, especially industry-oriented models for manufacturing scenarios, as well as to establish high-level industrial database to unlock the value of industrial data elements.
Only through integration of the three core elements of computing power, algorithms and data, can we bring the AI Plus initiative into industries and truly achieve industrial intelligence empowerment, said Yin Ping, a representative with Chinese IT firm Inspur.
In recent years, China’s computing power has achieved rapid development. By the end of 2023, the total size of China’s data center racks had reached 8.1 million standard racks and the scale of computing power had exceeded 230 EFLOPS, according to Shan Zhongde, vice minister of industry and information technology.
Computing power has been a key factor constraining AI development, said Fu Changwen, general manager of CCID
Consulting Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the China Center for Information Industry Development
(CCID) under the MIIT. With rapid advancement of AI and the ongoing digitalization of industries and enterprises, the demand for intelligent computing centers is growing, according to Fu.
Digital economy, driven by digital technologies, is developing rapidly and in an all-round manner. Innovation based on digital technologies has become a vital pillar for developing new quality productive forces, according to Su Bo, director of the National Intelligent Manufacturing Expert Committee.
— Expanding diverse application
scenarios
In 2023, IT technologies represented by generative AI triggered new revolution in the intelligent era, becoming a driving force for innovation across various industries. The goal of the AI Plus initiative is to actively apply AI to empower real economy by enhancing efficiency and promoting high-quality development, so as to bring in new industries, new models and fresh momentum to various sectors, said Zhang Li, president of the CCID.
China boasts a broad and diverse range of AI application scenarios, presenting vast opportunities for the AI Plus initiative. AI has been widely applied in fields such as imaging, retail, manufacturing, finance and healthcare. These applications are reshaping production modes and economic forms, improving production efficiency, lowering production costs, and boosting industrial competitiveness on the global stage.
For instance, at the recently concluded 14th Beijing International Film Festival, two classic films released over 40 years ago were re-premiered in brand new 4K versions, with help of generative AI visual large models.
In Weihai, east China’s Shandong Province, fishing boats entering the port would be immediately spotted by a fishery inspection and recording system on the shore. Infused with AI technology, the high-tech “receptionist” helps quickly confirm identity of the ships, significantly improving the efficiency of verification.
The AI technology has also been used to improve quality management efficiency and provide convenient services for consumers in purchasing goods. For example, e-commerce platform Dewu has managed to ensure quality of goods by establishing an AI inspection and identification production line. The AI computing engine, trained on years of research and vast data accumulated by the platform, can assist in improving inspection and identification efficiency.
It is necessary to deepen the integration of AI technology throughout the entire process of manufacturing, significantly improving the intelligence level of various stages including research and development, pilot testing, production, services, and management, according to Tao.
Targeting key industries with significant impact on the national economy, strong driving force and solid digital foundation, special actions will be undertaken to empower new industrialization with AI, accelerate the intelligent upgrade of key industries, and enhance the intelligence level of key products and equipment, said Tao. (Edited by Yu Huichen with Xinhua Silk Road,
yuhuichen@xinhua.org)

“Small and beautiful” county tourism gains popularity, more potential awaits unleashed
A woman promotes traditional Chinese Hanfu clothing via livestreaming at a Hanfu base in Caoxian County, east China’s Shandong Province, July 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)
BEIJING — County tourism made a splash in China’s domestic travel market during the past May Day holiday.
Zhengding County in north China’s Hebei Province, for example, saw tourists pour in everyday during the holiday. Data from China’s online travel agency (OTA) Ctrip shows that Zhengding travel orders witnessed a year-on-year increase of 90 percent while relevant hotel booking rocketed 105 percent during the holiday compared with that of last year.
Data by domestic OTAs shows that travel bookings for county-level markets outpaced the national average growth rate during this year’s May Day holiday. Specifically, the y-o-y growth rate of travel orders of first- and second-tier cities was lower than that of thirdand fourth-tier cities, which was then lower than county-level tourism.
“Small counties overtaking big cities” has turned out to be a new highlight of China’s tourism market, industry observers say.
But why has county tourism gained its popularity?
–Uniqueness stands out
Zhengding is just one of the many county-level destinations increasingly favored by tourists, as exploring authentic local culture in lower-tier markets made waves in China.
Industry experts attributed the trending partly to a turn of focus to uniqueness that can showcase taste and individuality. Travel products nowadays are more likely advertised as “hidden treasure”or “low-profile”, for example, to hint a journey of unique discovery, experts note.
Chinese counties indeed have much to offer in the racetrack of uniqueness.
Known to many as “China’s most beautiful countryside,” Wuyuan County of east China’s Jiangxi Province amazes many with its well-preserved ecology and biodiversity. Home to 95 rare animals under national-level protection, it also rises to become a sought-after place for nature and science education.
Earned the title “the center of Hanfu” with unparalleled Hanfu industry amid a fashion craze for the traditional Chinese attire, Caoxian County in east China’s Shandong Province could place visitors in a kingdom of Mamianqun, a traditional long pleated skirt literally translated as horse-face skirt.
With Miao people accounting for 84.2 percent of the total population, Leishan County of Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, could bathe tourists in rich ethnic culture with costumes, songs and dances as well festive celebrations. The list could go on and on.
–A sense of relaxation gives a push
But uniqueness seems not to be the whole story. For those hold travel is a must, “Life is Elsewhere” somehow sets the tone, yet some enjoy a feeling of always being on the road, more and more prefer a laid-back style and just chill out in somewhere that could make them feel at ease.
In this regard, small counties which have a compact scale but still “have it all” hit the spot right on.
Anji County in east China’s Zhejiang, for example, is known for its nature-wise bamboo forests, canyons, gardens and waterfalls. In the meantime, for those who come from “modern” cities and lifestyles, the county also boasts more than 300 cafes, offering a perfect blend of gentle green breezes with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Pingtan County, the biggest of the islands off the coast of east China’s Fujian Province, on one hand wows visitors with stunning glowing waves dubbed as “tear of the ocean”. Caused by bioluminescence, this phenomenon draws many viewers, especially from April to June. On the other hand, its traditional stone houses, the beaches, and hospitable locals add more features and confidence to a pleasant stay.
–Affordability cuts the deal
With a slower pace and more affordable consumption, county tourism is tagged “high cost performance” or “value for money”. Data show that during the holiday average per night price of county hotels is merely half of that in first- or second-tier tourism cities.
In addition, research by China Tourism Academy shows that the number of rural tourists has now risen to account for 16.9 percent of domestic tourists, indicating structural changes on the demand side of tourism market that more likely favors affordability.
More and more counties have come to realize and given better play to their own “small and beautiful” advantages. Ctrip has witnessed an increase of nearly 1,000 county scenic spots on the platform since the beginning of this year.
Here comes a new epoch of mass tourism with emerging lower-tier markets and upgrading demand, Dai Bin, head of China Tourism Academy noted.
On the other hand, a research report on high-quality development of China’s county tourism indicates that in 2022, 79 tourism counties each had a total tourism revenue of over 10 billion yuan and received more than 10 million tourists, while 65.86 percent of the counties covered by the research only saw a revenue less than 3 billion yuan.
China has over 2,800 county-level administrative regions, harboring myriad possibilities for county-level tourism. (Edited by Niu Huizhe with Xinhua Silk Road,
niuhuizhe@xinhua.org)

Policy
Policy Brief
Beijing to promote clean energy consumption for NEVs — Beijing will vigorously promote clean energy consumption for new energy vehicles (NEVs) amid its efforts to boost green development and foster green and low-carbon lifestyle, local relevant authority said. According to the municipal development and reform commission, it will actively support public institutions, enterprises, industrial parks, data centers, and charging pile operators to purchase and use clean electricity for charging NEVs.
China to initiate issuance of ultra-long special treasury bonds — China will issue ultra-long special treasury bonds starting on May 17 to raise funds for the implementation of major national strategies and build up security capacity in key areas, the Ministry of Finance said on May 13. The country plans to initiate the issuance of such bonds with terms of 20 years, 30 years and 50 years on May 24, May 17 and June 14, respectively. The issuance of the last batch of these bonds will be completed by mid-November, according to the ministry. China has planned for the issuing of ultra-long special treasury bonds during each of the next several years, starting with 1 trillion yuan (about 140.79 billion U.S. dollars) of such bonds in 2024.
The bonds will be used to support work in multiple fields, including science and technology innovation, integrated urban-rural development, coordinated regional development, food and energy security, and high-quality population growth, Zheng Shanjie, director of the National Development and Reform Commission, said earlier.
Chinese cities optimize home-buying policies with relaxed restrictions, trade-ins — Many Chinese cities, including Beijing, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Xi’an and Chengdu, have adjusted real estate policies, with measures such as eased purchase restrictions and the trade-ins of commercial housing, to further release the housing demand and promote the healthy development of the real estate market. As the latest moves, Hangzhou and Xi’an on May 9 announced the full removal of earlier restrictions related to home purchases. Prospective buyers no longer need to meet pre-existing conditions, such as the local hukou (residence permit), local social security and the number of apartments each buyer is allowed to purchase. Similarly, Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, lifted the restrictions for home buyers from late April. This greatly stimulated the housing market over the May Day holiday in the city. In Beijing, a notice issued on April 30 gave local families with the Beijing hukou permission to buy one additional commercial house outside the fifth ring road even if they already own two apartments in Beijing. Single adults with Beijing hukou and non-Beijing residents who have a record of paying social insurance or income tax in the city for at least five consecutive years are allowed to purchase one more property outside the fifth ring road even if they already own one apartment in the city.
China’s Tianjin issues negative list for outbound data — The China (Tianjin) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) on Thursday released a pioneering data exit management negative list to facilitate the cross-border data flows of companies. The list includes 13 main classes and 46 sub-classes of outbound data that require safety assessment while providing detailed descriptions and examples of these categories, said Liu Zhiyong, an official of Tianjin’s municipal bureau of commerce.
Int’l tourists gain better travel experience with China’s
preferential measures

Foreign tourists prepare to go sightseeing after completing passenger clearance procedures in north China’s Tianjin Municipality on April 7, 2024. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)
BEIJING — During the 2024 May Day holiday, China’s immigration authority recorded a total of 779,000 entry and exit trips made by international travelers, a 98.7 percent increase compared to a year ago.
From south China’s island province Hainan to Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region by the country’s northwest border, wherever they visit, foreign travelers are witnessing more convenience in their trip in China.
Against the backdrop of increasing inbound tourists, China is actively adjusting its relevant policies and putting in place favorable measures to address the need of international travelers.
“I really like China. This time, I visited places including Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. These places are all very fun. I will definitely come back again,” said Yelassai Maksat, a Kazakhstani traveler who came to China via Horgos Port in China’s Xinjiang.
— Friendly policies
Back in March, Zuiderdam, a cruise ship operated by international cruise travel company Holland America Line, stopped at Dalian in northeast China’s Liaoning Province, and north China’s Tianjin Municipality.
The ship, carrying more than 2,000 passengers and crew members from over 40 countries and regions, signifies the positive momentum of China’s cruise travel sector. In the first quarter of this year, the country saw cruise passenger trips exceed 190,000 -surpassing the figure registered for the whole of 2023.
A large part of this momentum can be attributed to improvements in travel-related policies, especially visa policies.
In October 2023, China implemented regional visa exemption for inbound cruise travel tourists. Cruise tour groups organized and received by domestically-registered travel agencies, and entering China via cruise terminals in Shanghai, are granted visa-free entrance. They are also allowed to stay for at most 15 days in coastal provincial-level regions and Beijing.
On May 15, the policy’s coverage was expanded to all cruise terminals in China.
Visa-free policy also played a significant part in boosting local tourism development for Hainan Province. Earlier in February, China announced the extension of visa-free policy of entering the island, allowing eligible visitors to enter the province for purposes including travelling.
With the policy’s implementation, in the three months’ time from Feb. 9 to May 9, more than 75,000 foreign travelers entered the island visa-free.
China has also decided to extend the visa-free policy for short-term visits to China for 12 countries until the end of 2025, so as to promote exchanges between Chinese and foreign nationals.
“This (extension of the visa-free policy) is an opportunity for Hungarian travelers. So this will definitely help to generate more business, and we highly appreciate the decision of the Chinese government,” said Konnyid Laszlo, CEO of Hungarian Tourism Agency.

Pakistani tourist Rana uses Pakistan’s NayaPay mobile app to pay the bill at a restaurant in the Blue Harbor international shopping park in Chaoyang District of Beijing, capital of China, April 8, 2024. (Xinhua)
— Improved services
Visiting China for the first time, Rana, a Pakistani national, was surprised to find that he could use Pakistan’s NayaPay mobile app to pay for items in the Blue Harbor international shopping park in Beijing.
“It’s really convenient to be able to scan and pay like in my home country,” he said.
Earlier this year, the trouble met by foreign travelers in paying bills caught public attention in China. It turned out that the country’s mobile payment system proved to be not so convenient for foreigners who are accustomed to paying by credit card, cash, or mobile payment apps in their home countries.
To address the problem, a guideline on optimizing payment services was issued by the General Office of the State Council in March. It particularly required large business districts, tourist attractions, hotels, hospitals and other key locations to support diversified payment options.
So far, the guidelines are seeing effective implementation. For instance, local authorities in Tianjin worked with financial institutions and payment service providers in upgrading commercial areas so that they can meet more diversified payment service needs.
To better serve foreign travelers, many tourist attractions in China have also studied the needs and preferences of their target customers in order to improve services.
In recent years, the city of Zhangjiajie in central China’s Hunan Province gained high popularity among tourists from the Republic of Korea (ROK). In 2023, ROK tourists accounted for over 40 percent of the area’s overseas tourists.
To ensure that ROK tourists gain best travel experience, the city yielded considerable efforts to create a friendly environment.
Local public transport stations, hotels and restaurants were all equipped with information signs in Korean, while local vendor booths and markets are able to provide services in basic Korean. Also, the city has more than 200 Korean-speaking tour guides and over 400 Korean-speaking narrators to facilitate the tourists’ visit.
Zhangjiajie will continue to develop itself into a world-class tourist destination, develop diverse tourism products, improve its tourism reception facilities, and provide more thoughtful tourism services, said Liu Ge’an, secretary of the Zhangjiajie Municipal Party Committee. (By Wu Ziyu, Zhang Yuyang)

China unveils plan to galvanize NEV uptake in rural areas
This photo taken on April 24, 2024 shows a new energy vehicle (NEV) assembly line of BYD, China’s leading NEV manufacturer, at the plant of BYD in Zhengzhou, central
China’s Henan Province. (Xinhua/Li Jianan)
BEIJING — China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, in collaboration with four government bodies, has launched a nationwide campaign to bolster the new energy vehicle (NEV) uptake in China’s rural areas.
The initiative will run from May to December 2024 and has been designed to bridge the current NEV consumption gap in rural regions, thereby enhancing residents’ level of green, safe travel and contributing to the construction of beautiful villages and rural revitalization.
The NEV rural promotion catalog features an impressive array of 99 models from leading auto manufacturers, encompassing a wide range of NEVs for various sectors, including sedans, SUVs and multipurpose vehicles.
This diverse lineup includes models from state-owned heavyweights like China First Automobile Group to new auto-making powers like Xpeng. The catalog also includes several products from BYD.
A series of activities will be organized over the course of the eight months, including exhibitions, test drives and other consumer experiences, aiming to enrich market offerings and providing a variety of choices for rural consumers.
A key aspect of the initiative is the organization of support services such as those related to charging, battery swaps, insurance, claims, credit and after-sales maintenance, with these services set to be expanded to rural areas to address current infrastructure shortcomings.
The program will also implement policies to encourage NEV adoption, such as those related to vehicle trade-ins and improvements to county-level infrastructure.
The initiative will focus on county-level cities with currently low NEV uptake rates but high growth potential.
Participation from NEV manufacturers, sales companies, financial institutions, charging and swapping infrastructure providers, and after-sales services enterprises is encouraged.
These entities are being urged to develop promotional plans that align with the initiative’s goals, and to establish comprehensive after-sales services systems to support rural consumers.
The campaign will combine on-site and online activities, leveraging the power of e-commerce and internet platforms to complement physical events with virtual ones, including online exhibitions and live interactions.
April saw a significant surge in China’s production and domestic sales of NEVs.
Data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) shows that last month’s NEV production hit 870,000 units and sales reached 850,000 units, with those figures respectively up 35.9 percent and
33.5 percent year on year.
In 2023, China’s production and sales of vehicles both hit record highs, topping 30 million units apiece, according to CAAM data.
And its production and sales of NEVs respectively exceeded 9.58 million and 9.49 million units, ranking first globally for a ninth consecutive year. (By Zheng Xin, Zhou
Business
Business Brief — Chinese Enterprises
Qianxian)

China’s tech firm Huawei hosts roundtable on cybersecurity in Dubai — China’s tech company Huawei hosted a roundtable meeting on cybersecurity during the annual telecom industry leadership gathering, SAMENA Leaders’ Summit 2024, held in Dubai on May 13. The roundtable, themed “Building Telecom Cyber Resilience to Protect Business in the Digital Era,” was held in collaboration with the SAMENA Telecommunications Council and Saudi Telecom (STC), gathering leading telecom operators and regulatory bodies’ cybersecurity experts and decision-makers. While addressing the meeting, Mohammed Alosaimi, chief security officer at Huawei Saudi Arabia, reaffirmed Huawei’s commitment to reinforcing cybersecurity infrastructure. He said that Huawei remains steadfast, in collaboration with carriers and partners, to strengthen the construction of digital infrastructure around the world, build a thriving ecosystem, and unleash the potential of the digital world securely.
Roundup: Chinese EV brand sets up logistics center at Spanish port — Arcfox, the electric vehicle (EV) brand of Chinese giant automaker Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation (BAIC), in collaboration with Spanish Atium Logistic Group, has established a logistics center for vehicle storage, deposit, and exportation at the port of Ferrol in northwest Spain. With prices ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 euros, the first four models to be distributed there are: S5, Alpha S, Alpha T and Kaola. Port authorities and representatives of Arcfox tested the four models at a ceremony held last Thursday at the port. “This is an initiative with a long-term vision that promotes Ferrol’s prominence on the map of global logistics and, of course, of China, which could be a magnet for new investments,” said Francisco Barea, President of the Port Authority of Ferrol. Victor Seoane, a local businessman, told Xinhua that this cooperation means the future of the region. “Work and future,” he said, adding that foreign companies coming to the city “will bring
benefits in all aspects.”
Chinese EV brand Zeekr gains attention as a brand favored by foreigners at the 2024 China Brand Day gala — Chinese premier electric vehicle (EV) maker Zeekr gained broad attention at the 2024 China Brand Day gala for its inclusion into the 50 most-favored Chinese brands for foreigners this year. As a young EV brand, Zeekr earned on May 10 the honor thanks to its superiority in online votes, objective data, overseas presence, and expert rating. Born amid the ascent of China’s auto industry, Zeekr who debuted on the New York Stock Exchange also on May 10 turned out now a pacesetter instead of a follower in China’s burgeoning EV manufacturing.
Feature: Chinese green business offers lifelong skills, income
Chinese companies attend world’s leading display show in U.S. — Chinese companies were seen as key players at a major display industry exhibition on May 14 in San Jose, U.S. state of California, impressing attendees with their cutting-edge technologies and products. The Display Week 2024, organized by the California-based Society for Information Display (SID), runs through Friday at San Jose McEnery Convention Center. According to the organizer, the exhibition features technologies including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), OLED, LCD, quantum dots, automobile technology, wearables, and digital signage, among others. China’s BOE Technology Group — one of the world’s largest manufacturers in the semiconductor display industry — and other leading Chinese display panel companies, like TCL China Star Optoelectronics Technology (TCL CSOT) and Tianma Microelectronics Co., Ltd., participated in the exhibition. BOE brought to the exhibition an array of cutting-edge technologies and trend-setting products such as glasses-free 3D display, light field display, AIoT, and VR/AR.

to Kenyan youth

This photo taken on May 2, 2024 shows electric vehicles displayed at Hanlin Africa New Energy Technology Company Limited in Nairobi, Kenya. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)
NAIROBI — With a confident swag, Moses Kimani chatted with clients at the entrance of Hanlin Africa New Energy Technology Company Limited (Hanlin Africa), a Chinese firm dealing with the assembly and sale of electric vehicles located south of Nairobi, the Kenyan capital.
Besides his elevated confidence levels,
the 27-year-old geography and environmental studies major is passionate about enlightening fellow compatriots why they should opt for green mobility, championed by his employer.
Kimani joined Hanlin Africa nearly two years ago, and his zeal for promoting electric vehicles and two- and three-wheelers
(boda-bodas and tuk-tuks) locally is unrivaled, informed by a desire to revolutionize mobility in Kenya, tackle carbon emissions, and churn out green jobs for the youth.
“Electric mobility is helping the youth; it has a very huge potential in the future. Our products have captured a lot of interest in the local market,” Kimani told Xinhua during a recent interview at Hanlin Africa’s assembly line.
Hanlin Africa, a subsidiary of China Yilian International (Hong Kong) Co. Ltd. and a sister company of Zhongshan Hanlin Energy Technology Co. Ltd., commenced its Kenyan operations on March 9, 2023.
The company has more than 30 local employees, including over 20 frontline workers, and occupies an area covering 4,700 square meters that accommodates a production workshop, a research and development center, warehouses and an exhibition hall.
Kimani and his youthful peers are proud to be associated with the Chinese maker of new energy vehicles, given the skills, exposure, sustainable income and career mobility it guarantees them.
Hanlin Africa has elevated green mobility in Kenya a notch higher through the assembly, marketing, and sale of affordable electric vehicles, he said.
Kimani, who is the head of marketing, said that in the course of his work, he has gained vital skills from his Chinese supervisors like client engagement, discipline and business acumen.
He noted that motorcycle riders, the majority of whom are youth, are enthusiastic about switching to electric models to cut fuel bills and aid the country’s transition to clean mobility.
Irene Mutie, a 24-year-old sales and marketing major who is now a sales representative at Hanlin Africa, said that compared to her previous employers, the Chinese firm has an edge in passing technical skills to local youth.
Mutie admitted that before joining Hanlin Africa, she had a scant understanding of electric vehicles, but now, thanks to training and mentorship, she is now able to explain their benefits to clients eloquently.
One of the most outstanding aspects of Chinese new energy firms, she said, is their ability to improve their technologies and pass on lifelong skills and knowledge to local employees.
“The skills that we have gained so far are good. We are able to see how electric bikes are assembled. We have also learned the importance of discipline and respect for others,” Mutie said.
She added that Hanlin Africa has aligned its operations with Kenya’s quest to become a hub for green mobility that promises a sustainable, richer, and more secure future for the East African nation.
Awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles among Kenyans has shot up, given the increasing number of visitors who troop to her employer’s premises to survey and bargain for new energy-moving machines such as tuk-tuks, boda-bodas and bicycles.
According to Mutie, the majority of customers are people aged 18 to 30, who appear more enlightened about new energy vehicles, their low maintenance costs, and their environmental benefits.
Going forward, for the electric mobility revolution to benefit a critical mass of local youth, the government should enact supportive policies and legislation to encourage investments in that space, Mutie said.
One balmy morning, Isaac Ng’etich, a 38-year-old salesman in the construction sector, grinned as he tried his hand at a sleek electric motorbike at Hanlin Africa’s exhibition hall.
Ng’etich said he would buy the electric bike, convinced that it would save him a daily fuel bill amounting to 500 Kenyan shillings (about 3.7 U.S. dollars), besides offering comfort on long road trips.
Initiated in early 2023, Hanlin Africa has quickly become a beacon for career and skill development for Kenyan youth, empowering them with not just jobs but also vital skills and knowledge about green technologies.
Underpinning the importance of local participation in green businesses, Liu Huixiang, head of Hanlin Africa, emphasized the strategic focus of the firm’s investments.
meaningful and focused on local also ensures that the benefits of foreign empowerment,” Liu said, adding that this investment are deeply integrated into the philosophy not only nurtures local talent but community. (By Naftali Mwaura)
Business Brief — Foreign Enterprises
“We need to have local staff run the business, which keeps our investment Tesla’s new mega factory project in Shanghai granted construction permit — A new mega factory project of U.S. carmaker Tesla Inc. has been granted a construction permit, according to the management committee of Lingang new area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone. As Tesla’s first energy storage mega factory project outside the U.S. market, it is located in the Lingang new area and expected to go into mass production in the first quarter of 2025. The factory will initially produce 10,000
Megapack units every year, equal to nearly 40 GWh of energy storage. Megapack is a powerful battery that provides energy storage and support, helping to stabilize the grid and prevent outages, according to Tesla.
FAW-Volkswagen to produce 3 SUV models in China’s Tianjin — FAW-Volkswagen Automobile Co., Ltd. will invest over 2.3 billion yuan (about 324 million U.S. dollars) in introducing the production of three SUV models at its plant in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, according to a cooperation agreement inked on May 15. The agreement was signed by the management committee of the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area and FAW-Volkswagen, a joint venture between China FAW Group Co., Ltd. and German carmaker Volkswagen. Production of the three SUV models, two of which are new energy models, is expected to begin in 2026.
Industrial scale of Sino-German cooperation in Beijing grows to 40 bln yuan — The Beijing China-Germany economic and technological cooperation demonstration zone has attracted more than 100 German enterprises, reaching an annual industrial scale of 40 billion yuan (about 5.53 billion U.S. dollars), according to a forum held in Beijing. The China-Germany (China-Europe) Hidden Champions Forum 2024 concluded in Beijing on May 14, having witnessed a trend of collaborative development between Sino-German (European) hidden champions and innovative clusters of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Hidden champions refer to highly successful yet lesser-known SMEs that are global leaders in terms of market share in their respective niches. Germany now boasts about 500 hidden champions. Attendees at the forum said they consider economic and technological Sino-German cooperation to be a model for global cooperation. Representatives of Sino-German industrial parks located in Chinese regions such as Beijing, Taicang, Qingdao, Wuhan and Hefei signed an initiative during the event, aiming to integrate cooperation ecosystems across different regions and industries.
Journey of durians from Thai orchards to Chinese markets
Interview: To invest in China is to invest in the future, says L’Oreal executive -Investing in China is investing in the future, and future of growth, innovation and inclusiveness, according to a senior executive of French cosmetics giant L’Oreal. Vincent Boinay, president of L’Oreal North Asia Zone and CEO of L’Oreal China, made the remarks during a recent interview with Xinhua as the company has just expanded its presence in China. L’Oreal China’s Suzhou Smart Fulfillment Center, the very first smart fulfillment center of L’Oreal Group, was put into operation last month. Equipped with advanced automation and IT systems, the 46,000-square-meter facility is capable of producing over 7,000 direct-to-consumer parcels every hour. “The inauguration of the Suzhou Smart Fulfillment Center not only deepens L’Oreal’s presence in China but also underscores our ongoing investment and dedication to future growth in the country,” Boinay said.

A worker packs durians at a processing factory in Chanthaburi, Thailand, April 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)
CHANTHABURI, Thailand — A worker stood atop a durian tree and cut the fruit with a knife, while his colleague caught the durian firmly with a sack under the tree. With the durian harvest season starting in eastern Thailand, farmers are busy organizing workers to cut durians off.
Sasitorn, owner of a durian orchard, has been in the business for over 10 years. Located in Thailand’s Chanthaburi province, Sasitorn’s orchard has more than 2,000 durian trees.
Chanthaburi province, about 250 km away from the capital Bangkok, is an important durian planting area in eastern Thailand.
“It is the harvest season for durians and I have hired more than 40 workers to cut durians every day,” said Sasitorn. She added that the durian production has decreased this year due to drought, but the demand in
Chinese market is large.
“We supply multiple varieties of durian, including kradum, which matures earlier, and Monthong, which is popular among Chinese people,” she said.
The durians picked at Sasitorn’s orchard were quickly transported to a nearby processing factory. Filled with fresh durians in the processing factory, dozens of workers are busy sorting, weighing, packaging and loading the durians.
Virachai, manager of the processing plant, told Xinhua that China is a very important market for them and currently all the durians from their factory are exported to China.
“Our factory has exported 23 containers to China so far this year,” said Virachai, adding that the durians mainly exported through three methods, of which air transportation accounts for 20 percent, sea transportation accounts for 40 percent, and land transportation accounts for 40 percent.
Thailand is one of the world’s major durian producers and exporters. According to the data from China’s General Administration of Customs, China’s fresh durian import in 2023 was 1.426 million tons, of which Thai fresh durians were 929,000 tons, accounting for 65.15 percent of China’s total fresh durian imports.
Limited by transportation and warehousing conditions, tropical fruits produced in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) used to be difficult to enter the Chinese market due to its short shelf life.
With the deepening of the construction of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, the effect of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and a number of interconnection projects such as the New Western Land-Sea Corridor as well as the rapid development of cross-border cold chain logistics systems and e-commerce, durians and other fruits from ASEAN can be transported into Chinese market more efficiently and conveniently.
Youyi Port is a land border port with Vietnam in Pingxiang, South China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. In 2023, China imported 282,000 tons of Thai durians through Youyi Port, a year-on-year increase of 162.4 percent. In the first quarter of this year, China imported 48,000 tons of fresh durians through Youyi Port and among them, 13,000 tons of fresh durians were imported from Thailand.
The prosperous import and export trade benefits from the tariff-free policies and improvement of customs clearance efficiency. Huang Feifei, a customs officer from Youyi Port, said the customs department has continuously upgraded intelligent supervision facilities, deepened the construction of special channels for imported durians, and implemented a series of customs clearance facilitation measures such as green channels for imported fruits to ensure that imported fruits can be passed quickly.
Located in Nanning, capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the Haijixing Market, hailed as the largest wholesale fruit market of Guangxi, thrived with an animated atmosphere as people were unloading truckloads of durians from
Thailand.
Mo Jiaming, a fruit dealer in Nanning, has been shipping about 50 tons of durians from Thailand to Haijixing Market every day. The fresh durians attracted many dealers and would be sold to the domestic market through various channels such as large supermarkets, fruit retail stores, and e-commerce platforms.
“Since this year, we have imported approximately 1,800 tons of durian. Thanks to the facilitation of customs clearance and cold chain preservation technology, the durians from Thai orchards can be transported to our domestic market as fast as three to five days,” said Mo, adding there are more transportation options to import durians, which can be transported by road, sea, air and rail.
Mo has been engaged in the durian import trade for six years and believes that China’s durian market still has huge potential.
“As China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation continues to deepen, the consumer market continues to rebound and improve. With a series of favorable policies and measures, I believe that durian and other fruits from ASEAN will have a broader prospect in the Chinese market in the future,” said Mo. (By Gao Bo, Chen Yifan, Li Huan)
Projects
Projects Brief
Ethiopia launches construction of Chinese-contracted economic zone -Ethiopia launched the construction of the Chinese-contracted Gada Special Economic Zone project in the country’s Oromia region on May 10. During the launching ceremony, the Chinese construction giant, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), and Ethiopia’s Oromia regional state administration, signed a memorandum of understanding for the development of the Lume Free Trade Zone within the Gada Special Economic Zone. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, addressing the event, said that the Lume Free Trade Zone, which will become the second one of its kind after Ethiopia’s maiden Dire Dawa Free Trade Zone, will contribute to the East African country’s socio-economic development. The free trade zone, once finalized, will be a major source of employment for the country’s burgeoning youth population while also attracting foreign direct investment into Africa’s second most populous nation, he said. Motuma Temesgen, director-general of Gada Special Economic Zone, said that the free trade zone, situated just 65 km southeast of the capital Addis Ababa, envisages boosting exports, establishing a trade logistics center and attracting foreign investments into Ethiopia.
Laos to build five-star hotel its northern province to boost tourism — Five-star Landmark Hotel will be built in northern Laos’ Oudomxay province, expected to boost tourism and socio-economic development in the area. A signing ceremony of the project was held in Oudomxay province on Tuesday by Director of Oudomxay province’s Planning and Investment Department Chanthala Xaybounheuang and the director of
Krittaphong Construction Company, a private business, Orathay Santikhongkha, Lao national TV reported on May 10. The project is aimed at utilizing the province’s potential in an effective and sustainable way in order to promote the implementation of the local socio-economic development plan. It is also expected to improve the living conditions of the local people and create a new image for Oudomxay and raise the profile of the province by providing high-end accommodation for visitors. The project site for the Oudomxay Landmark Hotel is located in Phoukhiew village, at the center of Xay district in Oudomxay, some 310 km north of the Lao capital Vientiane. Oudomxay province is famous for several natural and cultural tourist attractions. Among the province’s cultural attractions, Phou That temple is a big draw for tourists. The much-loved temple is an important icon for the people of Oudomxay province and visitors often pay homage to the shrine, which is renowned as one of the most striking temples in Laos.
Senj Wind Farm “model of cooperation” between China and Croatia, says mayor -The Senj Wind Farm is a “model of cooperation” between China and Croatia, the city’s mayor said in a recent interview with Xinhua. Jurica Tomljanovic said the farm, built by China’s Norinco International Cooperation Ltd. (Norinco International), “is an example that there must be cooperation in the world in the interests of the development of local environments.” He also expressed his support for the arrival of more Chinese companies in Croatia. The wind farm has created new jobs and opportunities for Croatian citizens, as well as Croatian companies, Tomljanovic underlined. Over 40 contractors from across Croatia participated in the construction process, with over half of the 500 daily workers on the project coming from Croatia. During the process, “cooperation with the Chinese partners was very successful, an example of good business cooperation,” Tomljanovic said.Located on the Adriatic coast of western Croatia, the wind farm produces about 530 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green electricity each year, and reduces Croatia’s carbon dioxide emissions by about 460,000 tons annually. The Senj Wind Farm and the Peljesac Bridge, constructed by a Chinese enterprise consortium led by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), “are proof that Croatia should leave the door open to the Chinese for new projects, as they have proven to be quality partners in every respect,” Tomljanovic said.
China’s Qinghai launches 750-kV power project connecting new energy to grid — A
reached 51.07 million kilowatts in 2023.
Viewpoints
New China-Spain train route boosts trade links
railway after the railway’s overhaul in north
China’s Shanxi Province.(Xinhua/Cao Yang)
BARCELONA, Spain — A new train route between China and the Port of Barcelona is set to boost trade links with the Asian country, a port authority executive told Xinhua in an interview on May 13.
The first goods train of a new rail route
Aerial photo taken on May 9, 2022 shows a train running on the Datong-Qinhuangdao between China’s Shanxi province and the northeastern Spanish city arrived safely at the port’s facilities at the end of April.

750 kV power transmission and transformation project has been completed and put into operation in northwest China’s Qinghai Province, according to the State Grid Qinghai Electric Power Company. The project, situated in Gonghe County of Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture at an average altitude of 3,175 meters, will help connect electricity generated by new energy projects in the province, including photovoltaic and wind power projects, to the power grid. The project is expected to increase annual clean energy power generation by more than 9 billion kilowatt-hours, which is equivalent to saving about 3.12 million tonnes of standard coal and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 8.64 million tonnes. Qinghai is home to the headwaters of the Yangtze, Yellow and Lancang rivers and is known for its rich water, solar and wind power resources. Total installed clean energy capacity in Qinghai had The first train of the China-Europe Railway Express from Shanxi to Barcelona departed from Taiyuan, Shanxi on March 22, and traveled for 35 days, covering over 12,000 km.
The cargo carried includes castings, furniture, canned goods, auto parts, daily necessities, and more. Since the first departure in 2017, the China-Europe Railway Express from Shanxi has regularly operated 16 routes, reaching more than 40 cities in 15 countries, with a total of 782 trains operated.
“This train strengthens the commitments the Chinese have made in choosing Barcelona, not only as a gateway into Europe but also as a Mediterranean center of distribution,” Carla
Salvado, deputy general manager of Commercial and Marketing at the Port of
Barcelona, told Xinhua.
“Geographically, the Port of Barcelona is in a very good strategic location because as well as being in Europe we are also on the Mediterranean Sea,” she added.
The TPNova rail operator, one of Spain’s leading transport companies, will run the new goods service on behalf of the Huayuan Chinese business group, which provides logistics services from its base in Shanxi.
The successful arrival of the train from Shanxi in April is the first fruit of the agreement between the Spanish and Chinese companies, signed in Barcelona in November.
The China-Europe Railway Express has connected 112 cities within China, passing through over 100 cities in 11 Asian countries and regions, and reaching more than 200 cities in 25 countries and regions in Europe. It has become a flagship project of the Belt and Road initiative, which aims to facilitate the international flow of goods.
“China is our strongest trading partner and so any link with China is very welcome and we’re very happy to appear on the map of the New Silk Road promoted by the Chinese authorities,” said Salvado.
According to the executive, the new train service is a “good complement” to the logistical air and maritime services already offered by the port.
The train left Shanxi with 50 goods containers, of which about half were unloaded in Germany, with the rest arriving in
Barcelona’s port for distribution elsewhere in
Senj Wind Farm “model of cooperation” between China
Spain. (By Neil Stokes, Ismael Peracaula)

and Croatia, says mayor

Aerial photo taken on Sept. 16, 2020 shows the construction site of the 156 Megawatt (MW) Senj Wind Farm project in Senj, Croatia.
(Xinhua/Gao Lei)
SENJ, Croatia — The Senj Wind Farm is a “model of cooperation” between China and Croatia, the city’s mayor said in a recent interview with Xinhua.
Jurica Tomljanovic said the farm, built by China’s Norinco International Cooperation Ltd.
(Norinco International), “is an example that there must be cooperation in the world in the interests of the development of local
environments.”
He also expressed his support for the arrival of more Chinese companies in Croatia.
The wind farm has created new jobs and opportunities for Croatian citizens, as well as Croatian companies, Tomljanovic underlined. Over 40 contractors from across Croatia participated in the construction process, with over half of the 500 daily workers on the project coming from Croatia.
During the process, “cooperation with the Chinese partners was very successful, an example of good business cooperation,” Tomljanovic said.
After the inauguration of the wind farm in December 2021 till now, there’ve been still a lot of Croatian experts and local employees working in the Zagreb office of Norinco International, showing that this cooperation continues, he said.
Not only does the Senj Wind Farm
“largely solve” the annual need for electricity, but the city of Senj also receives additional revenue from the operation of the wind farm, “which is significant for the development and benefits of all residents.”
Located on the Adriatic coast of western Croatia, the wind farm produces about 530 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green electricity each year, and reduces Croatia’s carbon dioxide emissions by about 460,000 tons annually.
In addition to providing a cheaper and more stable energy supply for locals, the green electricity that the wind farm produces is expected to satisfy the electricity demand of over 100,000 households in Croatia.
According to the mayor, the revenue from the operation of the wind farm has been used for investment in the infrastructure, water supply, sewerage, and beaches in Senj city.
“The inhabitants of Senj have recognized this and appreciate that they have been enabled to develop faster,” he said.
Interview: To invest in China is to invest in the future, says L’Oreal executive
This photo taken on Nov. 5, 2023 shows new products of French company L’Oreal at the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China’s Shanghai. (Xinhua/Zhang
Jiansong)
SHANGHAI — Investing in China is investing in the future, and future of growth, innovation and inclusiveness, according to a
The Senj Wind Farm and the Peljesac Bridge, constructed by a Chinese enterprise consortium led by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), “are proof that Croatia should leave the door open to the Chinese for new projects, as they have proven to be quality partners in every respect,” Tomljanovic said. (By Li Xuejun, Jurica Korbler)
senior executive of French cosmetics giant
L’Oreal.
Vincent Boinay, president of L’Oreal North Asia Zone and CEO of L’Oreal China, made the remarks during a recent interview with Xinhua as the company has just expanded its presence in China.
L’Oreal China’s Suzhou Smart
Fulfillment Center, the very first smart fulfillment center of L’Oreal Group, was put into operation last month. Equipped with advanced automation and IT systems, the 46,000-square-meter facility is capable of producing over 7,000 direct-to-consumer parcels every hour.
“The inauguration of the Suzhou Smart Fulfillment Center not only deepens L’Oreal’s presence in China but also underscores our ongoing investment and dedication to future growth in the country,” Boinay said.
Noting that L’Oreal China’s sales increased by 6.2 percent in the first quarter of 2024, he said that it is his main goal to make L’Oreal China the largest subsidiary of L’Oreal Group.
According to Boinay, China has the world’s most dynamic e-commerce landscape
Industries
and an expanding online shopping market, and 62 percent of L’Oreal China’s sales last year were made on e-commerce platforms.
The newly opened fulfillment center is an answer to the rapidly growing e-commerce in China and to the country’s call for the development of new quality productive forces, he noted.
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and France, the “Heart-to-Heart, Word-of-Mouth” 60th Anniversary Limited Gift Box was launched recently. The box containing a French red lipstick and a pair of porcelain cups stems from a collaboration of L’Oreal cosmetics and Chinese porcelain artwork.
“China is not only the second-largest market in the world for L’Oreal Group, but also an inspiration for the company with rich culture,” Boinay said, adding the company will continue to invest in China as the “next China is still China” when considering investment destinations. (By Zhou Rui, Shi
China’s booming new energy industry a boon for the world
Visitors watch the demonstration of a battery swap station of Chinese brand NIO at the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in Beijing, China, April 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)
BEIJING — In recent years, products from China’s new energy industry, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and photovoltaic
Hao)
products, have made their marks in the global market.
This has sparked heated discussions among observers regarding the extent to which Chinese new energy technologies and products benefit their societies. In fact, China’s progress in this industry not only promotes its own sustainable development but also holds positive implications for the global community.
First and foremost, China plays a crucial role in producing new energy products and reducing global carbon emissions.
As the world’s largest producer of new energy vehicles, China has leveraged its industrial prowess to fulfill its emission reduction commitments. China’s National Big Data Alliance for New Energy Vehicles has recently announced that in March, monthly carbon emissions reductions from new energy vehicles have surpassed 9 million tons for the first time, a significant milestone in China’s green development.
By the same token, data from the
National Energy Administration has revealed that China contributed over 50 percent of the 510 gigawatts of newly installed renewable energy capacity worldwide in 2023.
The increase in carbon emissions reductions from China’s EV and installed renewable energy capacity is a boon for the energy transition of China and the world at large.
China accounts for almost 60 percent of the new renewable capacity expected to become operational globally by 2028. This makes China a major contributor to the global goal of tripling the world’s renewable capacity by 2030, said the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Secondly, China emerges as a pivotal global player by exporting affordable new energy products to consumers worldwide.
In the “Global EV Outlook 2023,” the
IEA projected that outside of China, there is a need for original equipment manufacturers to offer affordable, competitively priced options in order to enable mass adoption of EVs.
Thanks to China’s capacity to manufacture the majority of industrial products, it has gained a significant competitive edge in producing affordable products in the new energy sector.
Most notable is the rise of BYD, China’s leading EV manufacturer. Its success is largely attributed to its vertical integration strategy and self-produced core components, which result in significant cost-effectiveness.
From sub-10,000 U.S. dollars compact cars to gleaming sports sedans for less than 30,000 dollars, China manufactures a diverse range of electric vehicles that cater to the needs of global customers.
China’s wind and photovoltaic power products have also been exported to over 200 countries and regions, helping to reduce electricity generation costs globally.
Finally, the rise of China’s new energy industry drives the world towards a green and low-carbon future.
Chinese enterprises’ clean energy investments abroad have spanned major countries and regions, encompassing wind, photovoltaic, and hydropower projects. These investments, based on mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, have supported local low-carbon growth.
China has partnered with over 100 countries on green energy projects, helping to drive down green transition costs and solve issues like electricity shortages. The major manufacturing hub has also carried out various forms of cooperation under the framework of green Belt and Road cooperation.
China has engaged in cooperation with other nations characterized by long-term commitment, deep integration, and active contribution to local economic and social development. This involves strategic partnerships, technology transfer and localized production, which are essential to ensure the trade yields mutual benefits.
As the Diplomat magazine has observed, Southeast Asian nations are actively courting Chinese EV companies in a collaboration that not only strengthens the imperative transition away from fossil fuel vehicles, but also fuels economic growth through technological exchange.
Erik Solheim, former UN under-secretary-general and former UN Environment executive director, said that for the green transformation of the world, China is the indispensable nation.
Transformative AI makes Chinese automobiles smarter
“The power of China to help the world go green is enormous,” he said. (By Lv Yanhao)

Visitors experience Xiaomi’s new energy vehicle model SU7 at the 2024 Beijing
International Automotive Exhibition in Beijing,
China, April 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Peng Ziyang)
SHANGHAI — Settling into the plush comfort of his vehicle cockpit, a driver surnamed Liu spoke to the sleek dashboard display: “Simo, how long before I reach home?”
“You have an hour’s journey ahead,” answered the onboard intelligence system supported by the large language model (LLM), an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered program that can recognize and generate multimedia text.
“Please activate the home air conditioning and close the curtains 30 minutes prior to my arrival.” “Affirmative.”
This scenario unfolded within Jiyue, an intelligent vehicle backed by Geely Auto, a prominent Chinese automaker, in collaboration with Yiyan, Baidu’s LLM platform.
Despite the complexity of overlapping voices, simultaneous commands or ongoing conversations, the smart voice system can adeptly discern and address the unique requirements of the commander.
Its adoption rate has reached an impressive 98 percent among its car owners, who on average utilize the system more than 60 times daily, said Xia Yiping, CEO of Jiyue Auto.
“See it, say it, and get it done.” Achieving this level of sophistication for smart cockpits is the goal of China’s automotive industry.
China’s competitive edge in the automotive market is not just a result of its burgeoning new energy vehicle (NEV) sector. The swift progression in the smart capabilities of these vehicles is equally pivotal in securing this advantage.
The country is committed to fortifying and elevating its vanguard status in the sector of intelligently-connected and new energy vehicles, according to this year’s government work report.
China’s auto landscape is now enriched with the integration of large-scale AI models, a collaborative effort between leading technology firms and automotive manufacturers.
Prominent tech firms contributed models like Huawei’s PanGu, Baidu’s Yiyan and iFlytek’s Xinghuo. Carmakers also made strides with their own proprietary architectures, including BYD’s Xuanji and XPeng’s Lingxi.
Now, over ten Chinese vehicle brands have embraced this technological leap, incorporating advanced AI models into their lineup.
“Cars, serving as a terminal that harnesses a plethora of cutting-edge technologies, have evolved from electrification to intelligence, and are poised to seamlessly integrate with the broader transport infrastructure in the future,” said Fang Yunzhou, the founder of Hozon Auto, a
Chinese electric car startup.
Previously, drivers were required to issue direct commands to their voice assistants, like “activate the air conditioning.” But now, with the incorporation of an advanced AI model, a simple statement such as “I’m feeling a bit chilly” suffices.
The sophisticated AI, demonstrating an understanding reminiscent of human cognition, can respond to the driver’s needs by executing a sequence of actions. This includes closing the windows, tuning the air conditioning to the driver’s accustomed temperature, and adjusting the fan to their usual setting.
“In the past, the process of voice recognition involved data analysis in the cloud followed by a download to the vehicle,” said Xia. “Now, the task can be done offline, a transition that allows drivers to operate their vehicles seamlessly even in the absence of an
internet connection.”
“The AI was predominantly governed by explicit rules, while contemporary large-scale models are propelled by data,” said Zhong Xinlong, an AI expert at CCID consulting, a think tank under China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
“This is akin to the concept of learning from specific examples and then applying that knowledge broadly, a skill that mirrors human learning and application of knowledge,” Zhong added.
Intelligence in automobiles is not confined to smart cockpits. Chinese automakers have taken a significant step forward by integrating the AI model across the entire spectrum of vehicle intelligence to achieve a comprehensive and vertical alignment of applications in multiple scenarios.
“Large-scale AI models are far more intelligent in perception, behavior and control than we might imagine, as they can, for example, interpret signs such as ‘ETC ahead is about to be repaired, please change lanes’,” said He Xiaopeng, XPeng chairman and CEO.
XPeng’s intelligent driving system, which once received updates on a quarterly basis, has seen an average of 3.87 new updates being rolled out daily, according to He.
“The integration of large-scale AI models into vehicles has already brought about a transformation from zero to one,” said Fang.
“Looking ahead, the evolution will be exponential. As this technology matures, we anticipate a future where the responsibility of driving is progressively handed over to the vehicle’s autonomous systems,” Fang added.(By Zhou Zhou)

The power source of China’s new energy industry
A visitor (R) studies a new energy vehicle during the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in Beijing, capital of China, May 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Dongxun)
BEIJING — The 2024 Beijing
International Automotive Exhibition was a spectacle with 117 global premieres and 278 new energy vehicle models, drawing crowds of traders, both domestic and international. These lively scenes vividly depict the robust growth of China’s new energy sector, igniting global curiosity about its unprecedented ascent.
In 2023, both production and sales of China’s new energy vehicles (NEV) exceeded 9 million units, maintaining its position as the global leader for nine consecutive years. Exports of new energy vehicles soared by 77.6 percent, reaching 1.203 million units and solidifying China’s position as a key driver of the global automotive industry’s green transformation. Collectively, exports of China’s “new trio,” electric vehicles, lithium batteries and photovoltaic products surpassed 1.06 trillion yuan (146.5 billion U.S. dollars) last year.
China’s rise as a global leader in emerging industries stems from its strategic foresight and unwavering commitment to green development.
As China swiftly devised a national strategy for new energy vehicles, Chinese automakers pursued diverse technological pathways by following policy guidance, including pure electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel, cementing their position at the forefront of innovation.
In the NEV era, Chinese firms have become vital technology providers for global collaborations, attracting international automakers to this year’s Beijing auto show looking to catch up to surging China EV makers, as noted by Reuters.
In addition to policies guiding development direction, China’s well-established supporting system has made many foreign enterprises envious. For instance, China’s swift action in building charging stations and upgrading infrastructure has far outpaced its Western counterparts, with coverage rates exceeding 80 percent in downtown areas of major cities.
Meanwhile, China’s ascendancy in emerging industries is underpinned by a mature industrial chain, robust supporting capabilities and abundant skilled labor.
China is the only country worldwide boasting industries covering every category in the UN industrial classification and hosting over 200 mature industry clusters. China’s manufacturing industry has been the largest in the world for 14 consecutive years.
This robust industrial foundation has enabled collaborative efforts across the supply chain and driven the success of the new energy industries. Additionally, China’s transition from demographic to knowledge dividends has provided crucial talent support, further contributing to its success.
China’s momentum in emerging industries also derives from fostering technological breakthroughs and innovative business models through intense market competition.
China’s NEV sector has not only propelled the transformation of traditional automotive companies but has also fostered the emergence of numerous new players. Moreover, the entry of giants like Tesla into the Chinese market has ignited multidimensional competition, leading to the development of high-tech, consumer-centric products that benefit consumers worldwide.
Similarly, manufacturers like CATL and BYD have thrived amid fierce competition in the power battery sector, while international companies like LG Energy Solution have ramped up production capacity in China. This efficient market mechanism and healthy competition ecosystem have injected vitality into China’s rapid industrial development.
China’s emerging industries have garnered comparative advantages on a global scale, a result of market competition and selection guided by market economy principles. In stark contrast to recent unfounded allegations of overcapacity, the primary drivers of China’s emerging industries are not subsidies but rather innovation, cooperation and competition.
Sino-British educational cooperation is in full swing
Facts are the most effective rebuttal amid an onslaught of smear campaigns. China will continue to bolster global industry by embracing innovation and fostering win-win outcomes while infusing vitality into the world economy. (By Gao Wencheng)

London — “In China, my coursework mainly focused on arts management and other specialized studies within the field, but there was clearly insufficient exposure to the market aspects. At Ulster University in Northern Ireland, the courses are more focused on marketing and market analysis of artistic products. This perfectly complements the deficiencies in my education in China and will significantly help me promote the internationalization of Chinese opera culture using market forces in the future,” said a female student surnamed Huang from the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts. Huang exchanged to Ulster University for a year under the joint training agreement between the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts and Ulster University during her final college year in China.
Qiao, a mechanical engineering student from Shaanxi University of Science & Technology in northwest China and now studying at Ulster University, echoed similar sentiments. “Studying at Ulster University requires students to have strong autonomy and self-discipline. You need to proactively engage in learning to keep up with the pace and content provided by the teachers and effectively participate in relevant discussions. Moreover, discussions organized here are more open compared to those in China. The teaching in China, relatively speaking, is more solid, with a more robust grasp of the subject matter. These two education methods can be said to complement each other. Each has its strengths,” said Qiao.
Ulster University has a longstanding collaboration with Shaanxi University of
Science & Technology. Under the collaboration, junior and senior students from Shaanxi University of Science & Technology can be recruited by a branch campus of Ulster University to study for two years at Ulster and gain degrees from both institutions upon graduation.
It’s not just Chinese students who feel this way. Teachers at Ulster University also highly praise the exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and British universities.
“One of the most important things we can do for students is to encourage them to interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures, broadening British students’ international perspectives and cultural experiences. I just returned from visits to Beijing and Hubei in early April. For me, these visits allowed me to experience and feel Chinese culture firsthand, which is quite different from experiencing it through books. The exchanges and cooperation between our school and Chinese universities have been crucial over the years,” said Professor Tom Maguire, head of the School of Arts and
Humanities in Ulster University.
The political circles in Northern Ireland also share similar positive views on strengthening exchanges and cooperation with Chinese universities.
At the China-UK/Northern Ireland Education Cooperation Forum at Ulster University in Belfast, Edwin Poots, speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, said that broader international exchanges and dialogues are essential for advancing globalization. Through educational cooperation, China and Northern Ireland can maximize and share their respective experiences, promoting the potential for mutual learning and providing opportunities for future development.
Zheng Zeguang, Chinese Ambassador to
the UK, noted at the forum that China has always been committed to educational openness and international exchanges. Practice has proven that Sino-British educational cooperation is mutually beneficial with broad prospects. Chinese students studying in the UK not only enrich the cultural diversity on British campuses, but also contribute to British education and research. Similarly, British students in China are also making contributions to Chinese education.
Currently, nearly 200,000 Chinese students are studying in the UK, including more than 2,000 at Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast. Since 2013, over 67,000 British students have studied in China or participated in internship programs.
Construction of educational cooperation projects between Chinese and Northern Irish universities is steadily advancing. For example, on May 1, Hubei Normal University and Ulster University signed an agreement to jointly establish a center for educational, linguistic, and cultural exchanges. Previously, the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts and Ulster University worked together to set up the China Arts and Culture Education Center (CACE), which became an important platform for promoting traditional Chinese arts and cultural exchanges. (Contributed by Zhang Yadong, edited by Su Dan with Xinhua
Silk Road, sudan@xinhua.org)

Economy & Data
Economy and Data Brief
China to cut retail prices of gasoline, diesel — China will cut the retail prices of gasoline and diesel on Thursday, based on recent changes in international oil prices, the country’s top economic planner said on May
15.Gasoline prices will be reduced by 235 yuan (about 33 U.S. dollars) per tonne and diesel prices by 225 yuan per tonne, the National Development and Reform
Commission (NDRC) said.Under the current pricing mechanism, prices of refined oil products are adjusted in accordance with changes in international crude oil prices.
China’s central bank adds liquidity via reverse repos — China’s central bank conducted 2 billion yuan (about 281.48 million U.S. dollars) of seven-day reverse repos at an interest rate of 1.8 percent May 14. The move aims to keep liquidity reasonable and ample in the banking system, the People’s Bank of China said in a statement.A reverse repo is a process in which the central bank purchases securities from commercial banks through bidding, with an agreement to sell them back in the future.
China’s railway passenger trips surge 22.9 pct in Jan-April — China recorded 360.15 million railway passenger trips in April, up 9.6 percent year on year, the National Railway Administration said May 14. During the first four months of the year, railway passenger trips amounted to 1.37 billion, surging 22.9 percent from a year ago, the administration said.Last month, 407.59 million tonnes of goods were transported by railways, down 1.9 percent year on year.
Means of production prices mostly rise in China — The majority of capital goods monitored by China’s statistical authorities registered higher prices in early May compared with late April, official data showed May 14. Of the 50 major goods classified in nine categories, including seamless steel tubes, gasoline, coal, fertilizer, and some chemicals, 29 reported higher prices in the period, 20 saw price declines, and one recorded an unchanged price, according to the National Bureau of
Statistics (NBS).
China sector speeds up digital transformation of manufacturing
Manufacturing Base in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province.
The NIO Second Advanced
Manufacturing Base is a digital intelligent factory with workshops such as stamping, car body, painting and final assembly. (Xinhua)
BEIJING — China has started to channel File photo shows the NIO Second Advanced more energy into the digital transformation of
China’s stronger-than-expected growth bolsters global recovery– A 5.3 percent year-on-year growth of GDP in the first quarter. A 5.7 percent year-on-year growth and a record high volume of foreign trade in goods in the first four months. In April alone, China’s foreign trade in goods surged by 8 percent year on year, with imports jumping by 12.2 percent.These encouraging figures indicate the sustained and enhanced recovery momentum of the Chinese economy, with the hallmarks of remarkable resilience and strength. Its unexpected vigor not only underscores the nation’s remarkable adaptability but also provides a much-needed boost to the global recovery.
its manufacturing sector to foster new quality productive forces and strengthen the economic momentum.
During a recent executive meeting, the State Council adopted an action plan aimed at advancing manufacturing digitalization. The plan includes measures to fulfill manufacturing needs across diverse scenarios, accelerate technological advancements, and enhance supporting efforts ranging from setting up standards to building service platforms.
Digital transformation is key to advancing new industrialization and the building of a modernized industrial system, according to the meeting.
As Chinese manufacturers have entered a critical stage in their digital shift, the latest government policies will provide guidance for them to speed up their digital drive and facilitate technological application and innovation, according to experts.
Zhu Minghao, a professor at Beijing Jiaotong University, said that a digitalized manufacturing industry is crucial to the development of new quality productive forces, as the deep integration of the digital economy and the real economy will create new business forms, new models and new services.
For three consecutive years, China has launched smart manufacturing pilot projects, building 421 national-level demonstration factories along with over 10,000 provincial-level digital workshops and smart factories.
Technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twins have been applied in more than 90 percent of the demonstration plants. 5G has been promoted on a large scale in quality inspection, mining production and other fields. The Industrial Internet now spans all major sectors, with over 200 application examples established.
Embracing the digital trend has brought tangible benefits to numerous producers across the country. For example, Jiangxi Huayuan Knitting Co., Ltd., located in east China’s Jiangxi Province, previously had to produce a minimum of 200 kg of products to generate 1 kg of samples with the machinery continuing to run. However, following an over-10-million-yuan (about 1.41 million U.S. dollars) digital upgrade, the company has significantly minimized production waste and slashed costs.
Gao Wengen, the manager of Huayuan, said that the company can now produce 2 grams of clothing at the same unit cost as producing 2 tonnes.
Such digital shifts have resulted in a 9-percentage-point decrease in the proportion of high energy-consuming manufacturing industries in Jiangxi’s total energy consumption over the past two years, compared to the early period of the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020). The province now aims to achieve digital transformation in over 10,000 enterprises in about two years.
The State Council meeting emphasized support for the digital transition of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly encouraging them to upgrade their equipment and technologies.
Zhu called for efforts to foster a batch of specialized tech companies capable of providing customized and cost-effective transformation solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs.
During an inspection tour last week in east China’s Zhejiang Province, a major manufacturing base, Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing stressed the need for support for the digital transformation of SMEs.
China will enhance public services for SMEs and assist them in sharpening their business edges so that more innovative firms can spring up that utilize specialized and sophisticated technologies to create novel and
unique products, Zhang said. (By Fang Dong)
Improving key indicators signal positive outlook for China’s
economy

This aerial drone photo taken on May 9, 2024 shows a freight ship docking the container terminal at Lianyungang Port, east China’s
Jiangsu Province. (Photo by Geng
Yuhe/Xinhua)
BEIJING — China’s economy is expected to maintain its recovery momentum despite multiple challenges, as evidenced by the favorable performance of numerous key indicators, experts said.
A prime example is the most recent release of China’s foreign trade data. Despite the challenges, such as the high base effect and currency depreciation pressure, China’s total goods imports and exports expanded 2.2 percent year on year in U.S. dollar terms in the first four months of this year, data from the General Administration of Customs (GAC) shows.
In yuan terms, China’s total goods imports and exports expanded 5.7 percent year on year during the period, stronger than the 5 percent recorded in the first quarter (Q1) and reaching a new high in the same period in history, according to the GAC.
Structurally, China’s export portfolio has demonstrated strength in the sectors of ships, electric vehicles and construction machinery, with growth rates of 108.4 percent, 28.3 percent and 16.2 percent, respectively.
This stellar foreign trade data aligns with the overall positive trend seen across various data. In Q1, the country’s foreign trade cargo throughput at major ports climbed 9.5 percent from the same period last year, while the number of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers handled by these ports jumped 10 percent year on year.
Zhang Xiaotao, dean of the school of international economics and trade at the Central University of Finance and Economics, said the vigorous performance in foreign trade signified the continuous effectiveness of the supportive macroeconomic policy mix.
The quantitative and qualitative growth in foreign trade will bolster confidence and provide impetus for economic growth, Zhang added.
Since the beginning of the year, the Chinese government has leveraged a variety of policies to cope with various challenges, such as insufficient demand, high operation pressure facing enterprises, and an external environment that is more complicated, grimmer and more uncertain.
These initiatives encompass strengthening financial and fiscal support for the real economy, promoting a new round of large-scale equipment renewals and trade-ins of consumer goods to stimulate consumption, and proposing new measures to incentivize foreign investment.
The first quarter demonstrated the effectiveness of these efforts. The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 5.3 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024, beating the growth target of around 5 percent set for the entire year.
Supporting the recovery narrative, April’s manufacturing purchasing managers’ index reading has remained in expansion for two consecutive months, serving as testament to the enhanced market confidence in this regard.
Moreover, industrial enterprises across the country have also experienced strengthened profitability. The profits of China’s major industrial firms increased 4.3 percent year on year in Q1, reversing a 2.3-percent decline registered in 2023 and extending an upward trend for three consecutive quarters.
Analysts have also underscored the remarkable growth observed in the burgeoning emerging industries, as the country’s attempt to nurture the “new quality productive forces” is generating more growth catalysts for the economy.
In Q1, the high-tech manufacturing sector reported robust profit gains, which surged 29.1 percent year on year, reversing from a decline of 8.3 percent registered in 2023. During the period, the production of smart and green products such as 3D printing equipment, service robots and new energy vehicles increased by 40.6 percent, 26.7 percent and 29.2 percent year on year, respectively.
Consumption has emerged as a bright spot, significantly contributing to domestic demand and overall economic growth. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that retail sales of consumer goods, a major indicator of the country’s consumption strength, climbed 4.7 percent year on year in Q1.
The enthusiasm for travel during the just-concluded five day May Day holiday exemplifies China’s strong consumption demand. Data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism shows about 295 million domestic tourist trips were made during the holiday, up 28.2 percent from the same period in 2019. Domestic tourist expenditure during the period totaled 166.89 billion yuan (about 23.5 billion U.S. dollars), up 13.5 percent from the same period in 2019.
Global tourist destinations saw a surge in popularity among Chinese holidaymakers. The volume of overseas hotel bookings rose about 100 percent year on year, while the booking value of overseas car rentals surged three times year on year, according to a report from Fliggy, one of the country’s leading travel platforms.
Wang Yiming, vice chairman of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, emphasized the improvement observed on both the supply and demand sides. Wang noted that with the accumulation of positive factors in China’s economy, the trend of economic recovery will further solidify.
Buoyed by the Q1 economic growth, international institutions such as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley have revised upwards their forecasts for China’s economic growth this year.
In line with this optimistic outlook, a report released by the Asian Development Bank said that China will contribute 46 percent to the economic growth of developing countries in Asia from 2024 to 2025, retaining its status as the largest growth engine for the world economy.
Looking ahead, experts anticipate that the momentum of recovery is likely to continue into the second quarter of the year, expecting a brightened outlook for the country.
Lian Ping, President of the China Chief
Economist Forum, said the stronger-than-expected data performance indicates a robust recovery in China’s economy, with enhancements in both internal dynamics and external demand.
Lian predicted that both quarter-on-quarter growth and the two-year average growth rates will accelerate in the second quarter of the year.
“With the solid implementation of supporting policies, the full-year economic growth may surpass the set target,” Lian suggested, calling for further steps to implement existing supportive policies.(By
Luo Qi)

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