China and the Environment

In a recent article in Wired magazine (April 2005) they have an article entitled "China's Next Cultural Revolution" The article centers around the automotive industry and makes some important points about China's environmental situation.

People often call us to complain about China's environmental situation, but they would do well to note that China only uses 2% of the world's gasoline. The automotive industry is growing fast, but they are estimated to reach only 50% of the US by 2020. And China is doing more for electric and hybrid cars than most any other country - they provide a much more open market condition in which to sell such cars. Shanghai is even going so far as to consider making downtown accessible to only electric cars in the future.

It's a good article with interesting side bars.

China as Rising World Power

In an article in Entrepreneur April 2005 Richard Branson mentions "All our expansion plans are overseas: China, India..." as well he goes on to say that "Even the smallest, youngest companies, should not be frightened to go overseas. The opportunities in the world are immense--China has a growth rate of 9% to 10% a year.....go there and enjoy it."

Bold advice from on of the world's most successful entrepenuers. We could not agree more. Although to rush into China on an enterpreneur's budget is risky business. Minimize this risk by developing a clear "China Strategy" and talk with someone who has experience in China to get a feel for where to go in China.

Remember, China is an immense country divided into many different localities, each with its own customs and business climate. Be prepared and be flexible.

For more info, I have written a white paper titled "The Truth About Sourcing in China" for those interested in taking the first steps in conducting business in China.