At the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), ABB showcased its latest technologies and solutions that address key challenges in industrial transformation and sustainability. Lars Eckerlein, the General Manager of ABB (China) Limited, shared his perspective on the company's ongoing success in China and its key role in the Greater Bay Area (GBA)—a region that is rapidly evolving as a global center for innovation and industrial development. In an exclusive interview with GDToday, Eckerlein discussed ABB's commitment to smart technologies, sustainable development, and its long-term strategy for the Chinese market.
ABB's focus on innovation and sustainability
For ABB, CIIE is more than just an exhibition—it's an opportunity to engage with both local and international partners and showcase solutions that drive industrial advancement. This year, ABB presented over 60 advanced products and digital solutions, all focused on innovation for sustainable development. "Our booth theme this year is ‘Innovation for Sustainable Development'," Eckerlein explained. "We are showcasing solutions that span smart energy, smart manufacturing, and smart cities—key areas that are critical to the future of China's industrial landscape."
Digitalization is at the heart of ABB's offerings, and Eckerlein underscored that the company's solutions help industries become more efficient and sustainable. By integrating digital tools that predict maintenance needs and optimize energy use, ABB is assisting companies in reducing operational downtime, lowering maintenance costs, and saving energy. "Through our digital solutions, we're not only enabling industries to run more efficiently but also helping them stay competitive in an increasingly demanding market," Eckerlein added.
ABB's commitment to sustainability is not just about reducing emissions, but also about creating systems that optimize the use of resources. For example, ABB's smart building technologies, which optimize air conditioning and lighting, are already helping clients save energy while maintaining comfort and performance. "Our solutions aren't just about meeting today's needs," Eckerlein remarked, "but about future-proofing industries for the long term."
ABB's growing presence in the Greater Bay Area
Eckerlein highlighted ABB's strategic focus on the Greater Bay Area (GBA), a region central to China's drive for industrial upgrading and technological advancement. ABB operates three factories and two research and development centers in Guangdong, and the company has made significant strides in tailoring its offerings to local needs. "The GBA is a dynamic, innovation-driven region. It‘s an ideal environment for our business," he said. "We have R&D centers in Shenzhen dedicated to electric vehicle charging infrastructure and smart buildings, which reflects our commitment to the region's focus on clean energy and digitalization."
The localization of ABB's operations in China is key to the company‘s strategy. Eckerlein explained that this approach allows ABB to better meet the unique demands of the local market. "Localization of both R&D and manufacturing enables us to stay agile and responsive to the needs of our customers," he said. "In Guangdong, we're deeply integrated into the local economy, and our solutions are helping industries embrace the shift toward smarter, more sustainable technologies."
Contributing to China's sustainability goals
As China continues to push for a greener, more energy-efficient future, ABB is proud to play a role in the country's sustainability transition. Eckerlein pointed out that the company's solutions are specifically designed to help businesses meet both environmental regulations and their own sustainability goals. One notable project is ABB's involvement in the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, where the company provided key electrical equipment for the project. "It's a flagship example of our contribution to large-scale infrastructure projects that not only support economic development but also focus on energy efficiency and sustainability," Eckerlein said.
Beyond infrastructure, ABB is also supporting the integration of renewable energy and the advancement of energy-efficient technologies. The company's energy management systems and electrification solutions are helping industrial facilities reduce their carbon footprint while maximizing operational efficiency. Eckerlein believes these solutions are essential to China's broader environmental goals. "The focus on renewable energy and electrification is driving a major transformation in how industries operate. Our solutions are helping companies navigate this transition while staying competitive in an evolving market," he explained.
Future prospects for ABB in China
Looking forward, Eckerlein emphasized that ABB remains committed to investing in China, especially as the country continues to prioritize industrial upgrading, digital transformation, and sustainable development. "We continue to invest organically and inorganically in our footprint in China. The GBA, with its strong focus on innovation and clean energy, provides us with significant opportunities for growth," he said.
Eckerlein also acknowledged the evolving business landscape in the GBA, where the push toward electrification and smart technologies is creating new opportunities for ABB. "We are excited about the future of the GBA and its role as a hub for industry, technology, and sustainability. The region's emphasis on innovation and sustainability directly aligns with ABB's vision, and we're proud to contribute to its continued success," he concluded.
As China strives to meet its ambitious goals for industrial modernization and energy transition, ABB's local expertise and technological leadership will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the country's industries.
Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing, Hu Nan, Deng Yabing
Cameraman: Shi Lei
Video: Zhou Xinyu, Zeng Xiangxing
Editor: Nan, Nina, James, Shen He
