Bob Buttermore, managing director, Rockwell Automation Greater China

A1We have already seen an increasing number of projects and signs of a real economic rebound since the start of the year, which is better than the same period last year. We hope this trend will continue so China can meet its annual GDP target. This period of low economic growth has also seen a more active service sector and stock market.

A2We are committed to helping Chinese manufacturers improve productivity and global sustainability. As the world’s largest manufacturer, China is a strategically important market for Rockwell Automation.

We feel bullish about the development prospects of the China market. Driven by the Made in China 2025 program and supported by the Chinese government, Chinese manufacturers are committed to implementing intelligent manufacturing, which will provide us with a great opportunity for cooperation.

A3The Belt and Road Initiative has brought great opportunities for business development to China and related countries.

We are participating in this initiative through our cooperation with numerous companies.

Leveraging our global technological strengths and service capability, Rockwell Automation is able to help companies shorten the time of overseas construction and act in accordance with local policies and regulations, which will help to promote Belt and Road Initiative projects.

A4The supply-side reform requires enterprises to boost their ability to innovate.

While this will serve to stimulate demand, it will also require companies to respond better to market demand for production.

Rockwell Connected Enterprise solutions can help manufacturers achieve better innovation through informatization and intelligent technology, and connect with the supply and demand chains to respond more quickly to market changes.

A5China has reached a turning point because the advantages offered by a low-cost labor force have gradually diminished.

Maintaining the competitiveness of China’s manufacturing industry will require a new focus on innovation and intelligent manufacturing transformation. This is also the main reason why China proposed the Made in China 2025 initiative two years ago.