Confident in the Chinese market, German chemicals group Lanxess is actively exploring potential opportunities in China, according to Michael Rockel, CEO of Lanxess Greater China.

Over the years, China has shifted from being a major manufacturing center in the global chemicals industry to a pivotal consumer market, Rockel said.

Currently, China accounts for 40 percent of global chemical sales, and this figure is expected to approach 50 percent by 2030.

China holds significant strategic importance for Lanxess's global business, Rockel noted.

Shanghai speed

Both Lanxess Asia and Lanxess Greater China are headquartered in Shanghai.

Shanghai is a city with significant development potential and investment value, Rockel said. He noted that the city has continuously enhanced its business environment and services.

He cited the establishment of Lanxess's Asia-Pacific Application Development Center in Shanghai as an example.

Located in the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park, the AADC is Lanxess's largest research and development center in the Asia-Pacific region and the most advanced of its kind globally.

After signing an MOU with SCIP in 2019 for the land, the center officially opened in 2021. The entire process took just two years, thanks to vigorous support from the municipal government in obtaining permits and handling other matters.

This impressive speed reflects 'China speed' and 'Shanghai speed', demonstrating Shanghai's exceptional business environment, Rockel said.

This year marks the third anniversary of the AADC's opening. As an innovation center for Lanxess's regional business, its influence is expected to extend throughout the entire Asia-Pacific region, Rockel added.

Digitalized life

Rockel, a German, first came to China in 2007 and settled down in the country in October 2011. He received his Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card in 2022.

Rockel is amazed by China's high-speed rail network, 4G and 5G networks, and the rise of e-commerce.

As a tech enthusiast, he has purchased and used many products from Xiaomi and Huawei.

When he first came to China, he used 3G or EDGE for mobile Internet access. Now, 5G networks are everywhere, and everyday life has been digitized, Rockel said.

Michael Rockel poses for a photo with his family. [Photo provided by Michael Rockel]

Lanxess's plant in Shanghai

Source: China Economic Weekly