What's the China Innovation Tour, and Who's It For?

Global companies can’t seem to stay away from China. In fact, global tech leaders seem to be flocking to China every quarter. Even Tim Cook was recently in China for the second time in just eight months. So, what gives?

“Apple is keen to seize the opportunities presented by China’s opening up and will continue to increase its investment in the country, thus contributing to the high-quality development of the industrial and supply chains,” Cook was quoted saying during his last visit.

The fact of the matter is, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and biassed media, industries worldwide have much to learn from each other as the global economy continues its slow recovery.?

China's market and innovations are of particular interest to many foreign markets looking to learn from best practices. One effective way to gain firsthand insights into China's market is through the China Innovation Tour.

According to the 2023 Global Innovation Index by the World Intellectual Property Organization, China has the most science and technology clusters in the top 100 worldwide, with 24 clusters.

China's information and communications technology (ICT) patents make up 14% of the global total. In 2023, the fastest-growing domestic patent sectors were IT management, computer technology, and basic communication processes, with increases of 59.4%, 39.3%, and 30.8% respectively.

At ChoZan超赞, our China innovation tours are ideal for companies navigating the advanced China market and for those abroad learning from its success.

Who’s the China Innovation Tour For?

1. Tech Companies

Global tech companies on this tour will:

• Explore China's leading-edge innovations in AI, 5G, and cloud computing to enhance their own technological capabilities at home.
• They’ll also get the chance to engage with top tech firms and industry pioneers to gain insights into market trends and strategic partnerships.
• Global tech companies are also able to adapt strategies learned in order to align with China's digital landscape and leverage local expertise for competitive advantage.

One notable example of tech innovation in China that global tech companies can learn from is the use of metahumans in livestreaming by Chinese MCN (Multi-Channel Network) firms. MCNs have been employing AI-powered digital avatars, or metahumans, to host livestreams.

For instance, Momo, a Chinese MCN, introduced a virtual influencer named "Ling," who interacts with viewers in real-time, showcases products, and even performs live music.

This innovative approach not only captivates the audience with its novelty but also ensures a consistent and tireless host for livestreaming sessions.

Using metahumans in livestreaming leverages AI and digital animation to create engaging, scalable, and efficient promotional events, showing how technology can transform e-commerce.

2. Global Brands / MNC

Global brands and MNCs on this tour will:

• Gain first-hand insights into the country's tech landscape and customer-centric innovation practices.
• Immerse in China's dynamic ecosystem to identify opportunities to integrate effectively with local players.
• Enhance strategic decision-making through data-driven insights and align global strategies with consumer demands in the Chinese market.

One example that global brands and MNCs can learn from is LVMH. LVMH had extended its partnership with Alibaba Cloud in 2024, focusing on leveraging Alibaba's AI and cloud technologies to enhance its presence in China.?

This renewed five-year partnership integrates Alibaba’s generative AI functions like Qwen and Bailian into LVMH’s infrastructure, aiming to transform consumer interactions and business operations.

By utilizing Alibaba’s technologies, LVMH gained access to advanced supply chain management tools and deep customer insights. They were able to enhance its omnichannel experiences and overall market competitiveness in China.

?? Want to explore how the China innovation tour can advance your business? Send me a message or visit chozan.co/china-tech-tour and let's get started mapping your itinerary.

Why Learn from China??

1. China's Rapid Adaptation?

• Observe Chinese companies swiftly adapting to market changes and consumer demands.?
• Analyze agility in product development and market entry strategies.?
• Implement rapid adaptation techniques to stay competitive in the industry.

BYD is a good example of China's rapid adaptation. The company quickly adapted by shifting from traditional car manufacturing to leading in electric vehicles. They developed a wide EV lineup and advanced battery technology, like the Blade Battery.

BYD also expanded into renewable energy, including solar power and energy storage, showing their innovation and agility in meeting global demand and supporting sustainability.

Foreign companies can learn from BYD's rapid technology adaptation by embracing change quickly, investing in innovation, and diversifying offerings.?

BYD's swift transition to electric vehicles, development of advanced battery technologies like the Blade Battery, and expansion into renewable energy solutions demonstrate the importance of a proactive approach to emerging technologies.

This includes prioritizing research and development and creating a sustainable, resilient business model.

2. Cutting-Edge Technologies??

• Explore China's advancements in AI, 5G, and blockchain technology.?
• Examine the integration of these technologies into various industries for enhanced efficiency and innovation.?
• Apply technological insights to drive innovation within the organization.

One notable example of cutting-edge technology in China is the mass-deployment of 5G networks. As of 2024, China has over 700,000 5G base stations deployed nationwide, far surpassing other countries in infrastructure development.?

This advancement has transformed industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation by enabling data transfer speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G and significantly reducing latency to milliseconds.?

In manufacturing, for example, 5G allows real-time monitoring and control of production lines, enhancing efficiency and reducing downtime.

Foreign companies can learn from China's 5G deployment by investing in similar infrastructure to drive digital transformation, improve efficiency, and explore new IoT applications to stay competitive globally.

3. Customer Centricity Models

• Study how Chinese businesses prioritize user experience and customer engagement.?
• Learn from the use of super apps and comprehensive service ecosystems to meet diverse consumer needs.?
• Incorporate consumer centricity models to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

An example of how Chinese companies use innovation to enhance customer-centricity is through the development of super apps like WeChat and Alipay. These platforms integrate multiple services, such as messaging, payments, social networking, and more, into one cohesive ecosystem.?

WeChat, for instance, boasts over 1.25 billion monthly active users worldwide, with its mini-programs hosting over 400 million daily active users who access various services seamlessly within the app.?

This integration boosts user engagement by providing personalized recommendations and easy transactions, improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

?? Interested in any of the above topics and learning more from China? Visit chozan.co/china-tech-tour for more info on how a China learning expedition can help you.

How’s the China Innovation Tour Done??

1. Learning and Experiential Solutions?

A) Company Visits?

Immersive visits to leading tech innovators such as Jingdong and ByteDance offer deep dives into groundbreaking product developments and rising tech trends critical for shaping future strategies.

Examples of Innovation Companies to Visit in China:

• ByteDance

Find out about ByteDance's innovations in AI-powered content algorithms, virtual reality applications, and global social media platforms like TikTok.

This exploration offers perspectives on digital engagement strategies and global content creation trends.

• SenseTime

Explore SenseTime's advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly in computer vision, facial recognition technology, and autonomous driving systems.

SenseTime's innovative applications have been pivotal in sectors such as security, healthcare diagnostics, and smart city solutions.

• Cambricon Technologies

Visit Cambricon Technologies to learn about their developments in AI chips and deep learning processors.

Cambricon is a notable player in China, specializing in designing hardware that enhances AI computing capabilities for applications ranging from data centers to edge devices.

• Unisound

Explore Unisound's advancements in voice recognition and natural language processing technologies.

Unisound specializes in developing AI-powered voice interaction systems that are integrated into smart devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics.

B) Expert Dialogs

Engage in interactive sessions with industry experts from China's tech sector, including renowned researchers and executives from top companies.

These dialogues facilitate in-depth discussions on advanced technology and strategic pathways, fostering informed decision-making and innovative solutions.

C) Latest Insights?

Gain insights into China's progress in quantum computing, where major investments are driving breakthroughs in cryptography and machine learning. Explore AI-driven precision healthcare solutions in major hospitals, boosting diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

China, for instance, is leading the way in the development of 6G technology, with significant investments and early-stage trials showcasing its commitment to next-generation connectivity.

In 2024, China announced a $30 billion investment in 6G research and development, aiming to achieve data transmission speeds up to 100 times faster than 5G.?

This tech leap is set to totally transform industries like autonomous driving, remote surgery, and virtual reality. Foreign businesses can learn from China’s proactive 6G approach, highlighting early investment in next-gen tech.

2. Effective and Practical Insights?

A) Smart Integration Strategies?

Understand digital integration through China’s use of IoT and AI in urban management, with briefings for actionable strategies.

In 2024, for instance, Tencent launched an AI-driven diagnostic system in 500 hospitals in China to enhance medical diagnosis accuracy and efficiency.

It uses advanced machine learning to analyze medical images and patient data, reducing diagnostic errors by 30% and processing times by 50%.

Tencent's AI diagnostic tools have been instrumental in early detection of diseases, including lung cancer and cardiovascular conditions, leading to better patient outcomes and more efficient healthcare delivery.

This innovation in AI-driven healthcare provides valuable insights for foreign healthcare systems looking to integrate technology to improve patient care and operational efficiency.

B) Innovative Technology Immersion

Explore China's pioneering digital landscapes, encompassing smart cities, blockchain advancements, and AI-driven industries, to gather daily insights on the latest innovations and practical implementations.

In 2024, Cainiao, Alibaba’s logistics arm, revolutionized supply chain management in China with its AI-powered logistics network. By integrating AI, robotics, and IoT, Cainiao optimized delivery routes, reduced delivery times by 25%, and cut operational costs by 15%.?

The use of autonomous robots in warehouses increased sorting speed by 40%, while over 1 million IoT sensors improved real-time tracking and reduced shipment losses by 30%.

Foreign companies can gain valuable insights from this innovative approach to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer service in their own operations.

C) Cultural and Consumer Insights

Understand the nuances of the Chinese market by engaging with local business practices and consumer behaviors. This equips foreign companies to tailor products and services effectively, ensuring better market entry and customer satisfaction.

Chinese consumers also value digital convenience and social proof, highlighting the importance of integrating influencer endorsements and user-generated content in marketing strategies.

3. Strategic Networking Opportunities

A) Industry Leaders

Participants have the opportunity to engage with top executives from leading Chinese tech companies, gaining insights into their innovation strategies and business practices.

One such example is Li Ning, a prominent sportswear brand that has embraced smart technology to enhance its products. By incorporating self-heating jackets and sensor-embedded footwear, they track performance efficiently.

Li Ning also utilizes 3D printing for rapid prototyping and AI-driven e-commerce to offer personalized shopping experiences.

These advancements have resulted in a 20% increase in online sales and a 15% reduction in production costs.

B) Collaborative Partnerships

Explore potential partnerships and collaborations with Chinese firms, opening doors to new business ventures and market opportunities.

In 2023, BMW collaborated with Baidu to enhance its autonomous driving technology. By integrating Baidu's advanced Apollo autonomous driving platform, BMW achieved a 30% improvement in driving accuracy and significantly accelerated its vehicle’s autonomous capabilities.?

This partnership not only streamlined BMW’s development process but also allowed the company to leverage Baidu’s extensive data and AI expertise, resulting in a 20% reduction in testing time.

C) Exclusive Industry Events

Attending special industry events and seminars hosted by Chinese tech pioneers is also one key to staying updated on the latest trends and developments in technology and business.

Foreign companies attend tech events in China like CES Asia, CIIE, and WAIC to explore new technologies and trends in consumer electronics and AI.

These events provide insights into China's tech advancements, offer networking with top tech companies, and inspire global firms with innovative solutions.

?? Engage in future-forward China tech conversations! Drop me a message or vist chozan.co/china-tech-tour to learn more about our China tours.

How Will Your Company Benefit from the China Innovation Tour??

1. Cutting-Edge Technological Exposure

Experience China’s latest advancements in technologies like AI, 6G, and smart infrastructure, gaining practical insights that can inspire and drive technological innovation within company.

2. Exclusive Networking Opportunities

Engage with leaders from prominent Chinese tech companies and industry pioneers, building valuable connections and exploring potential partnerships that can expand your market reach and collaborative ventures.

3. Actionable Business Strategies

Learn from successful implementations of innovative technologies and strategies in various sectors, equipping your company with practical solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

4. Cultural and Market Insights

Understand the nuances of the Chinese market and consumer behavior, helping you tailor your products and services to meet local demands and align with regional trends.

5. Innovation Adoption Models

Discover effective models for adopting and integrating new technologies, including case studies from Chinese companies that have successfully implemented tech-driven business solutions.

6. Competitive Benchmarking

Compare company’s technology and strategies with those of leading Chinese innovators to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement, ensuring stay ahead in the global market.

7. Regulatory and Compliance Knowledge

Get insights into China’s regulatory environment and compliance requirements for tech innovations, helping you navigate legal and operational challenges when entering or expanding in the Chinese market.

?? Are you from a tech company or global brand/MNC? Why not come to China’s most innovative cities and join a learning expedition so you can implement the country’s best practices at home? Visit chozan.co/china-tech-tour for more info.