International: Artificial intelligence (AI) took centre stage at the Fourth China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), where cutting-edge innovations highlighted China`s expanding role in shaping the future of global supply chains.

The event featured intelligent robots, breakthrough AI technologies from leading Chinese and international companies, and, for the first time, a dedicated AI exhibition zone. The expo has increasingly become an important platform for integrating foreign investment into China`s innovation ecosystem and strengthening international cooperation across industrial and supply chains.

Yang Yuan, Chairman of Supply Chain for Greater China at Procter & Gamble (P&G), said China has established a leading position in automation and AI applications.

"China is well ahead in the fields of automation and AI applications. Going forward, we will place even greater emphasis on AI and automation to further enhance the overall performance and efficiency of our supply chain," Yang said.

Wang Qichong, Chairman of Intel China, said the company currently maintains close partnerships with more than 15,000 local Chinese enterprises.

"China`s innovation ecosystem continues to grow stronger. Together with our local partners, we hope to explore more application scenarios by closely integrating advanced computing technologies, thereby accelerating productivity growth," Wang said.

Zhang Kaifeng, Senior Vice President of Schneider Electric Group and Head of Global Supply Chain for the China Region, said the company sources more than 90 percent of its supply chain locally in China.

"To further strengthen our supply chain collaboration model, we are working closely with approximately 1,600 supplier partners," Zhang said.

The growing presence of multinational companies at the CISCE reflects China`s increasingly prominent role in global supply chains, particularly in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and digital innovation.

Source: Cai, Alim and Wang Haiman, China Media Group (CMG).