(Yicai) Nov. 5 -- At this year’s China International Import Expo, many returning foreign exhibitors said they are prioritizing artificial intelligence and localization to tap new growth opportunities in China.

Panasonic Holdings, which has attended all eight editions of the annual trade expo, made AI the centerpiece of its exhibition this year. The company said it plans to continue expanding its research and development workforce in China, particularly software developers, to improve the efficiency of production processes.

Homma Tetsuro, global vice president of Panasonic and regional head for China and Northeast Asia, said the electronics manufacturer is promoting localization across its entire value chain, from R&D to production and sales. Many innovative products developed in China have already been supplied to global markets, Homma noted, adding that he expects this trend to accelerate from next year.

“China is one of Samsung Group’s largest overseas markets. The country continues to promote high-level openness, and its market potential is tremendous, offering valuable opportunities for foreign enterprises to expand,” said Zhang Daijun, executive vice president of Samsung China. The South Korean company, also an eighth-time exhibitor, is showcasing leading technologies and applications in AI, display, semiconductors, and medical devices.

Toyota Motor China Investment, participating for the eighth consecutive year, is also deepening its China presence. General Manager Li Hui said China’s ongoing drive for openness and high-quality development has bolstered foreign brands’ confidence to expand locally. Lexus Electrified Shanghai, which launched in February, will leverage the Yangtze River Delta region’s advanced supply chains, logistics, and talent networks to develop products tailored to Chinese consumers.

Jaguar Land Rover, the first British automaker to exhibit at the CIIE, has also maintained full attendance over eight years. “The CIIE is an open stage for win-win cooperation between China and the world, and an accelerator for value creation by foreign enterprises in China,” said Pan Qing, chief executive of Jaguar Land Rover China. He added that the firm continues to launch new products and technologies while strengthening its local “in China, for China” strategy.

French luxury group Kering, attending for the seventh time, will showcase all its brands at the event. Chief Executive Officer Luca de Meo said the group will debut new products for the Asia-Pacific region and global exhibitions, introducing digital interactive modules to create a more immersive and personalized experience.

IKEA China’s President and Chief Sustainability Officer Pang Anze said this year marks the Swedish retailer’s eighth consecutive participation. Pang noted that IKEA aims to use the CIIE platform to share innovations, deepen cooperation, and drive its business growth in China.

Editor: Emmi Laine