My First Journey to China: Suzhou 1996

In the early spring of 1996, Fiber Visions A/S (then known as Danaklon A/S) sent me on an unforgettable journey to Suzhou, China. As an Operator and Instructor in the R&D department, my role was to oversee the erection, commissioning, and operation of two fiber processing lines and two at that time state-of-the-art fiber carding lines with focus on the carding lines. These lines, designed and manufactured in Germany, represented the cutting-edge of fiber processing engineering at the time, designed to produce high-quality synthetic fibers and nonvowen, for hygienic products. This was a major project for Danaklon A/S —a fusion of technology, culture, and determination that required adaptability and perseverance.

Suzhou in 1996 was a vastly different city compared to the modern, high-tech metropolis it has become today in 2025. Back then, the streets were unpaved in many areas, dominated by bicycles and rickshaws and only few cars compared to today. The skyline was modest, dotted with construction cranes as the city worked to balance its industrial growth with its historic charm. Beyond the bustling industrial zones, like The Suzhou Industrial Park (苏州工业园区), you could find tranquil canals, ancient stone bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture—a reminder of Suzhou’s rich cultural heritage.

The Factory: A Blend of Chaos and Determination

Arriving at the job site The Suzhou Industrial Park (苏州工业园区), the factory itself was still under construction, with bare concrete floors and workers bustling around to prepare for installation. The two fiber processing lines and two at that time state-of-the-art fiber carding lines were shipped in enormous crates, and the first task was to supervise the careful assembly of these intricate German machines. The photo of a massive crane lifting one of the machines of the truck, captures the sheer scale of this task. Each step of the process required precision, collaboration, and communication, often overcoming language barriers with gestures, sketches, and technical manuals.

The cover image shows me standing proudly in front of the machinery alongside my Chinese colleagues "S?ren and Finn", both wearing our Danaklon A/S uniforms. It was a moment that captured the spirit of teamwork that emerged as we worked together to bring the lines to life. The camaraderie that developed with the local team was one of the most rewarding aspects of the project. They were eager to learn, and I was equally eager to share my expertise, ensuring that the training was thorough and tailored to their needs.

The Infamous Lunch Boxes

Every day at the site, we were provided with lunch boxes—a true adventure for the palate. These boxes were a curious assortment of rice, fish, chicken, and vegetables, all crammed into one container with little regard for separation. For someone used to Danish cuisine, the bold flavors, spices, and unexpected textures were overwhelming at first. One box might include tiny fish with bones still intact, while another featured unknown vegetables that sparked both curiosity and hesitation. The photo of us during a meal break captures this cultural exchange. My colleagues often laughed at my initial reactions, offering tips and encouragement to try everything at least once. Over time, these lunches became a bonding experience, teaching me the value of embracing the unexpected.

Suzhou’s Charm and Challenges

Despite the long hours and hard work, I managed to explore Suzhou during my stay. One photo of a serene canal lined with traditional whitewashed buildings shows the city’s timeless beauty. These quiet moments offered a stark contrast to the industrial intensity of the factory, reminding me of the city’s dual identity—steeped in history yet moving rapidly toward modernization.

We experienced bustling markets, always with plenty of curious onlookers and vibrant displays of local goods shows the liveliness of Suzhou’s community.

The work itself was demanding but fulfilling. Commissioning the fiber lines involved running rigorous tests and adjusting the settings to meet customer-specific requirements. The photo of a colleague resting on a wooden crate after a long day reflects the sheer effort and dedication of everyone involved.

By the end of the project, the lines were operational, and the local team was confident in their ability to manage and maintain the equipment. The sense of accomplishment was palpable, captured in a group photo where smiles replaced the initial tension of the unknown.

Reflections

Today, when I return to Suzhou, I see a transformed city. The dusty roads have been replaced by highways, the bicycles by electric scooters and luxury cars. Skyscrapers dominate the skyline, and the factories are equipped with even more advanced technology. Yet, the essence of that first trip remains with me—the challenges, the learning, and the friendships forged in a city that was just beginning to step onto the global stage.

The experience taught me lessons that go beyond technology: the importance of cultural understanding, adaptability, and finding joy in shared experiences. The journey, both personal and professional, set the foundation for my continued work in China and solidified my belief in the power of collaboration across borders.

A New Chapter Begins

Looking back, that first trip to Suzhou, in 1996, was the catalyst for everything that followed, for me related to China. The challenges, the cultural exchanges, and the accomplishments ignited a deep connection with China. It was this very project that brought me back to Suzhou in November 1998, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

Since then, I have stayed in China, building a career, a family, and a lifelong appreciation for the opportunities and experiences this country has offered me. Suzhou 1996 wasn’t just a project—it was the start of a journey that continues to inspire and shape my life today. December 2024, I extended my journey by obtaining my second Chinese Green Card, which is valid until 2034, so..............., story to be continued.

Kjeld Friis Munkholm CEO/Owner

www.munkholmconsulting.com

? 2024 Kjeld Friis Munkholm. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the author. transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the author.