In recent years, the revelation of fraud by Kobe Steel, a century-old Japanese company, has sparked widespread concern about the decline of Japanese manufacturing. Meanwhile, the global influence of Chinese manufacturing continues to grow steadily. This shift is not just a result of exports but reflects a deeper transformation in how China's manufacturing industry operates on the world stage.
On October 16, the first batch of Boston Orange Line subway cars developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicle Co., Ltd. is set for delivery to the U.S. in December, marking the first time Chinese rail transit equipment enters the American market. The American public will soon experience the "China speed" through this advanced technology.
Over the past two years, the transformation of "Made in China" abroad has become more evident. A prime example is Foxconn, which represents the high-end level of Chinese manufacturing. It acquired Sharp, a once-revered Japanese brand, showcasing how Chinese companies are reshaping global manufacturing landscapes.
Sharp, known as the "father of liquid crystal," once faced massive losses and was on the brink of collapse. However, after a capital injection from Foxconn in 2012, the company began to recover. By 2016, when Foxconn invested further, Sharp’s financial performance turned around, returning to the ranks of high-end brands globally.
Data shows that Sharp’s e-commerce sales accounted for 36.9% of total market sales. In August, Sharp launched the world’s first consumer-grade 8K TV, available in Shanghai, Taiwan, Tokyo, and Berlin. This innovation marks a significant step forward for the brand.
From rapid profitability to technological advancement, Sharp’s revival is a testament to the growing influence of Chinese manufacturing. How did Foxconn transform Sharp? What lessons can it offer to other Chinese companies looking to expand globally?
**Transforming Sharp**
For over a century, Sharp has been a pioneer in electronics, introducing numerous groundbreaking products such as radios, solar cells, and liquid crystal displays. However, in recent years, the company struggled with persistent losses, leading to its sale in 2016 to Hon Hai (Foxconn), which acquired 66% of its shares.
Sharp’s decline stemmed from various factors: a slow corporate culture, delayed market responses, and an oversupply of LCD panels. Foxconn’s involvement brought much-needed efficiency and cost control. The company streamlined operations, focusing on product development while outsourcing manufacturing to Hon Hai.
With Foxconn’s procurement and production scale, Sharp significantly reduced costs. For instance, some of Sharp’s 2017 TV models were produced by Hon Hai. Additionally, Foxconn expanded its manufacturing base in Guangzhou, supporting Sharp’s 8K ecosystem.
Foxconn also helped Sharp re-enter the Chinese market through strategic marketing campaigns, including participation in major e-commerce events like Double 11 and 618. These efforts increased brand visibility and market share.
**From LCD Pioneer to 8K Innovator**
As the world’s largest contract manufacturer, Foxconn brings strong industrial capabilities and supply chain advantages. Combined with Sharp’s technical expertise in display technologies, the partnership has driven innovation and diversification.
Under Foxconn’s guidance, Sharp expanded beyond traditional TVs into 8K technology, IoT, and cloud services, building a smart home ecosystem. This transformation has positioned Sharp as a leader in next-generation technology.
The results have been impressive. Sharp’s performance exceeded expectations in 2017, proving the success of the collaboration. With Foxconn’s investment in R&D and infrastructure, Sharp is now well-positioned to lead in the 8K era.
**The “Made in China†Transformation Journey**
The collaboration between Foxconn and Sharp exemplifies the evolution of Chinese manufacturing. No longer just exporting goods, China is now transforming global brands through strategic acquisitions and industry integration.
Experts suggest that China’s manufacturing strategy is shifting from imitation to innovation, from OEM to brand equity. By acquiring upstream assets and empowering global brands, China is moving up the value chain.
Guo Taiming, chairman of Foxconn, emphasizes that for China to truly transform, it must move from behind-the-scenes manufacturing to being a key player in the global supply chain. Acquiring brand assets is a critical step in this process.
This transformation is not only changing the perception of “Made in China†but also reshaping the global industrial landscape. From a manufacturing power to a manufacturing leader, China is redefining its role on the world stage.
Low Frequency Inverter Charger
Low Frequency Inverter Charger
Have good environmental adaptability. Resistant to high temperatures, dust, stable output. Suitable for outdoor, vehicle, office space.
Low Frequency Inverter Charger,Low Frequency Inverter 24V,Low Frequency Inverter,Car Power Charger
SUZHOU DEVELPOWER ENERGY EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD , http://www.fisoph-power.com