Another important trend in the entire region is connectivity. An increasing number of customers are interested in the production advantages that connectivity offers. “We support our customers in optimizing their production performance by monitoring and collecting real-time data from each compressor to minimize downtime, predict maintenance needs and suggest energy-saving measures,” says Frank Liu. “An increasing number of our power technique customers now utilize the potential of connected machinery, where uptime is in focus. We can predict maintenance needs via wireless data, and support customers by servicing their equipment remotely,” adds Erik Sparby. Justin Zhou expects the digitalization trend to continue, as China takes its first steps toward fully 5G-connected manufacturing plants. “We will see more and more complete solutions in smart manufacturing, with more automation, more robots and cobots, as well as more machine vision solutions and more data-driven services,” he says. A thriving vacuum business Increased connectivity means a growing demand for semiconductors, and large volumes of chips for the global electronics industry are produced in the Greater China area. On top of this, flat panel display production, LED lights, battery manufacturing, solar panels and scientific research equipment are the main drivers for the Group's vacuum business in Greater China. “The more electrified and digitalized the world gets, the more it depends on semiconductors,” Eric Lin, General Manager for Edwards Taiwan, explains. “The Atlas Copco Group has a strong position in the expanding semiconductor industry, and the expertise and capacity required to meet the steadily growing demand linked to the development of 5G, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and cloud-based services,” he says. Janet Ren, General Manager for Leybold in China, also part of the Group, highlights the expansion of the country's already world-leading battery, 5G and solar energy industries, and their technology upgrades. “Leybold is a leader in integrated vacuum solutions for these segments, and we continuously invest in R&D to maintain this position,” she says. “Moreover, China keeps increasing investment in technical upgrade, new technology and scientific research to boost the national innovation capacity, and the trend will continue in the years ahead.” Tackling challenges As China's industrial companies continue to develop at a rapid pace, they also face challenges related to increasing compliance pressure in areas like taxes, the environment, cybersecurity and protection of intellectual property. “The country is clearly stepping up its actions in these areas,” says Francis Liekens. “This is a big advantage for Atlas Copco, as we are already compliant with all regulations and don’t need to make the big investment that some of our local competitors now need to do. We are also known for following very high ethical standards, and this is something we see a business differentiator on all markets.” Though Francis has a highly positive outlook on Greater China’s economic prospects and the opportunities ahead, he doesn’t ignore the challenges. “The market is changing fast. Trade disputes could lead to a market slowdown. We must also always keep a close eye on business ethics aspects. But overall, I think the opportunities clearly outweigh the challenges. This is the place to be.”