Chinese auto suppliers are gaining the support they need to meet worldwide standards, while U.S. automakers and suppliers find new fertile ground for partnering and expanding their own global sourcing options.
FUZHOU, China, Oct. 30 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and Economic and Trade Commission of Fujian Province (Fujian ETC) have signed a memorandum of understanding today in Fujian to help Chinese suppliers there become global suppliers to the automotive industry.
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"This new program is simply another important step in AIAG's ongoing commitment to work with the Chinese government to accelerate the development of the automotive supply base in China," said J. Scot Sharland, executive director of AIAG. "A significant number of AIAG member companies - both OEMs and suppliers alike - are looking for partners that can supply the components they need within China as well as help them leverage the cost advantages there to supply other markets around the world. By collaborating with Fujian ETC and HKPC, AIAG can help Fujian auto parts suppliers to develop strategies for participating in one of the fastest growing markets in the world in terms of pure organic growth."
Dr. Stephen Lee, Director of HKPC, said, "HKPC is pleased to collaborate with AIAG to assist the auto parts sector in Fujian to enhance their capabilities. Leveraging our expertise and experience in the industry, this strategic partnership will facilitate industry players to enter the global supply chain."
Mr. Zhang Jin Zhu, Vice Director of Fujian ETC said, "We are pleased to collaborate with these professional organizations - AIAG and HKPC - to enhance the capability of Fujian auto parts companies by helping them meet global standards and become global suppliers."
Under the agreement, all three organizations will work together to enhance the competitiveness of automotive suppliers in Fujian by improving their capabilities in development, production and management through gap analysis, training and other tools for improvement.
About AIAG
Founded in 1982, AIAG is a globally recognized organization where OEMs and suppliers unite to address and resolve issues affecting the worldwide automotive supply chain. AIAG's goals are to reduce cost and complexity through collaboration; improve product quality, health, safety and the environment; and optimize speed to market throughout the supply chain. Headquartered in the metro Detroit area, its member companies include North American, European and Asia-Pacific OEMs and suppliers to the automotive industry. Visit the organization's newly redesigned Web site at http://www.aiag.org.
About HKPC
HKPC's mission is to promote productivity excellence through the provision of integrated support across the value chain of Hong Kong firms, in order to achieve a more effective utilization of resources, enhance the value-added content of products and services, and increase international competitiveness.
In 2006, the Hong Kong Automotive Parts and Accessory Systems R&D Centre was set up to undertake market-led R&D and commercialization programs. The areas of focus include electronics, safety systems, new materials and processes, as well as hybrid, electric drives and environment; engaging in platform technology, collaborative and contract research projects.
For more information, please visit HKPC's website at http://www.hkpc.org.
About Fujian ETC
Fujian Economic & Trade Commission is founded by the department in provincial government that is responsible for industry and domestic trade as well as adjusting national economy operation. The main functions of Fujian ETC include study, propose, organize and implement the new industrial development strategy; promote export for business enterprise; lead enterprises to international communication, cooperation and international operation; and response for managing the investment project in business scope etc.
