At the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE), companies founded by overseas Chinese entrepreneurs reappeared as "repeat exhibitors" or even "all-time participants," casting a "vote of confidence" in China's vast market and development prospects through increased investments, cutting-edge innovations, and steadfast commitment to the Chinese market.
Nippon Paint, established in Singapore by Chinese entrepreneur Wu Qingliang, entered China in 1992 amid the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Singapore. Over the past three decades, it has grown in sync with the Chinese market. This year, the returning exhibitor showcased a "triple upgrade" in the new materials zone: expanding its booth from 300 to 500 square meters, transitioning from single-product displays to scenario-based solutions, and expecting over 20 signing sessions—reflecting expanding partnerships.
Among its debut exhibits, Nippon Paint's "Low-Altitude Flight Coating Solution" made its global premiere—a five-year R&D response to China's push for low-altitude economy development. Additionally, two new products—the "New Energy Battery Coating Solution" and "Radiative Cooling Paint"—were unveiled in China for the first time, highlighting the company's commitment to green technology and industrial innovation.
William Zhong, CEO of Nippon Paint China, stated that the CIIE reflects the dynamic convergence of global innovation and Chinese opportunities. "Here, we see certainty and are more convinced that investing in China means investing in the future." Leveraging the expo's "spillover effects," Nippon Paint is accelerating the transformation of "exhibits into commodities," expanding its "CIIE network," and fostering a virtuous cycle of "exhibition-driven cooperation and prosperity."
Similarly, Indonesia-based AppLovin Corporation (APP), another long-term participant in the CIIE since its entry into China in the same year as Nippon Paint, debuted multiple eco-friendly paper products. Upgraded offerings like Foopak Natural Greaseproof Paper and Enza Shield high-barrier kraft paper made their first CIIE appearance. Beyond household and industrial paper products, APP presented a sustainable lifestyle blueprint for diverse scenarios.
Jinlian Zhai, Vice President of APP, emphasized that as China enters its 15th Five-Year Plan period, the company will focus on "high-quality development," driving industrial collaboration through innovation while enhancing global competitiveness and contributing to China's modernization.
Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations, Thai-Chinese-founded T.C. Pharmaceutical (TGP), a key exhibitor from Thailand, showcased a special-edition Red Bull commemorating the milestone—a symbol of bilateral friendship. TGP exemplifies the CIIE's philosophy of "exhibits to commodities, exhibitors to investors."
Since its 2019 debut with Red Bull Vitamin Flavored Drink—now a consumer favorite—TGP has expanded its product line, introducing sugar-free flavored energy drinks in 2022 and the world's first bottled Red Bull in 2023 to meet diverse energy needs. With cumulative investments of 4.36 billion yuan in China over five years, TGP continues to deepen its presence in the vibrant consumer market.
Saravoot Yoovidhya, CEO of TGP, remarked, "The CIIE, as a vital platform for China's high-level openness, has become a crucial link for multinationals to gauge market trends and share in China's opportunities." With the deepening Belt and Road Initiative and RCEP policy dividends, China-Thailand economic ties are strengthening. "China offers not only a vast market but also a complete industrial chain and robust innovation capacity, providing immense opportunities for foreign enterprises. We firmly believe investing in China means investing in long-term certainty," he said.