Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH, recently reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to China, emphasizing the country’s vital role in innovation amid a shifting global industrial landscape. Hartung highlighted China’s leadership in green transition and intelligent manufacturing, as well as its rapid progress in industrial automation, battery technology, and electric vehicles. Bosch is also strengthening its investment in electrification, particularly in China, in response to rising demand for battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
As a major global player, Bosch has a strong local presence in China, with preliminary data indicating that the company generated 142.8 billion yuan (approximately 19.9 billion US dollars) in sales revenue in 2024, representing a 2.7% year-on-year increase. With over 120,000 employees in China, the company is witnessing firsthand the country’s rapid strides in artificial intelligence, digitalization, green tech, and manufacturing innovation.
Hartung stressed the importance of free and fair trade, warning that rising trade tensions could disrupt supply chains and hinder technological advancement. He noted that China’s focus on high-quality development, particularly in areas such as digitalization and sustainability, aligns closely with Bosch’s expertise. “China is no longer just a manufacturing center; it is a global innovation powerhouse,” he said.
Bosch is committed to supporting fair trade and minimizing barriers, believing that higher tariffs often lead to retaliatory measures that increase costs and slow down innovation. The company has developed a robust regional production network, with a localization strategy that enables it to manufacture and innovate within key markets like China. However, Hartung emphasized the importance of global cooperation, arguing that certain technologies should not be developed in isolation.
Looking ahead, Hartung reaffirmed Bosch’s long-term investment strategy, committing to continue investing at a high level to ensure a smart allocation of resources. The company will optimize its footprint to maintain a competitive edge, balancing local-for-local production with global synergies.