制造业升级创新是关键

The Chinese government is calling for technological innovation to upgrade the manufacturing sector. It is seen as the key to implementing the ‘Made in China 2025’ plan. One example is in air conditioner compressors, most of which now are produced in China.

The heart of a cooling system of the air conditioner is its compressor. It is found in home appliances, electric vehicles, and even cell phone towers. In a Shanghai lab, workers have been designing and experimenting new models. Zhang Haifeng has been heading the lab for years. For him, innovation comes in every little detail.

"Energy efficiency is a key feature of air conditioner compressors. We have been constantly adjusting product structures, optimizing performance, and customizing the compressors for different markets," said Zhang Haifeng, R&D Center Manager of Highly Electrical Appliances Co., Ltd.

Workers are detecting leaks, adjusting controls and upgrading inefficient equipment before it goes to mass production. The aim is to deliver cool air, without generating large electricity bills. Compressors come in different sizes for different needs. The company is also taking a step further in smart production. Twenty-seven industrial robots have reduced the number of workers in the plant.

China supplies most of the world's air conditioner compressors. With an annual capacity of 20 million compressors, the Shanghai based Highly Group comes in second, after Gree Air Conditioners. With the domestic market almost saturated, company executives say they are also branching out to emerging markets such as India.

Zheng Jiandong, President of Highly Electrical Appliances Co., Ltd., said: "Technological innovation and new markets are both engines driving our growth. After ten years of growth, we now produce the leading air conditioner compressor in India, occupying almost half of the market there."

Favorable export policies from China's quality supervision authority also give companies like Highly a boost in their global outreach.

"We have reduced inspection procedures at Customs. And we hold regular policy briefings and technical support for companies in the area to boost exports," said Sun Wenkang, a customs official.

With the government calling for an upgraded manufacturing sector, companies such as Highly are being called on to give China a boost in the global market.