In the bustling production workshop of Zhejiang Qizhong Control Equipment Co., Ltd. in Taozhuang Town, Jiashan County, rows of intelligent electric actuators undergo precision testing before being packed and shipped to Russia. Dressed in blue workwear, Tang Xiaofeng inspects the sealing interfaces of the equipment, his fingers tracing the QR codes on the casings. "These devices are critical for remotely controlling valves in Russia's natural gas pipelines and must withstand extreme cold of -60°C," he says with confidence.

Tang Xiaofeng, now a key player in the global high-end equipment market, took over a traditional manufacturing firm that once relied on imported components and played a minor role in the industry. Over a decade of relentless effort, Tang leveraged his overseas education and technical expertise to transform the company from a follower to a leader. Today, its flagship product—the intelligent electric actuator—has an annual output of 30,000 units, securing a strong foothold in China's industrial automation sector and exporting to 32 countries and regions.

**From Dependence to Independence** In 2013, Tang returned from studying engineering and management at RMIT University in Australia to join his family's business, Liansheng Instrument Accessories Factory. Frustrated by its reliance on imported controllers, he spearheaded a shift toward integrated electromechanical solutions. Despite initial resistance, Tang's persistence paid off when the company successfully developed its first self-designed electric actuator, marking a breakthrough in smart manufacturing.

**Expanding Globally** By 2021, Qizhong Control's second-generation actuators, featuring enhanced durability and traceability, entered mass production. Tang's focus on innovation led to breakthroughs, such as adapting products for Russia's harsh -60°C conditions and developing corrosion-resistant stainless steel housings for Middle Eastern markets. These efforts helped the company fill gaps left by Western brands exiting Russia and gain traction in Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Peru.

**Setting Industry Standards** With a commitment to R&D—allocating 11% of annual revenue—Qizhong Control has secured five invention patents and over 20 utility patents. Its "24-hour response" service policy and localized supply chain further strengthened its market position. In August, the company achieved a milestone by contributing two technical standards to China's national draft regulations for smart actuators, solidifying its role as an industry leader.

Tang Xiaofeng's vision remains clear: "Lead with standards, expand with technology, and grow through market feedback—propelling Qizhong Control to new heights on the global stage."