Corning makes bold bet on China

Corning Incorporated is deepening its presence in China as the country accelerates its transition toward high-quality, innovation-driven growth — a strategic shift the United States-based materials science company sees as closely aligned with its core strengths in advanced materials across optical communications, display, and automotive markets.

"China has entered a stage of high-quality development. Going forward, boosting technological innovation will be crucial," said Lin Chunmei, president and general manager of Corning Greater China. "China's push to foster new quality productive forces and innovation-driven growth is aligned with Corning's strengths. When China sets a goal, it usually delivers, because it channels all its resources toward achieving it."

"China's long-term economic prospects remain positive. Every economy goes through cycles — sometimes it grows faster, sometimes slower," she said. "We may be facing some short-term difficulties, but we are still confident in the long run. Our customers are here, and we grow together with them. That hasn't changed."

Corning has invested more than $9 billion in China since entering the market in the 1980s. It operates 21 manufacturing facilities, an R&D center and three technology centers, employing over 6,000 people across the country.

A core component of Corning's China strategy is deep localization — not just in production, but throughout the supply chain. "Back in 2017, 75 percent of our raw materials were sourced in China. Today that number has reached 92 percent," Lin said.

This year, Corning is committing another $500 million in China, targeting fast-growing sectors including artificial intelligence, data centers, automotive solutions, and large-screen display technologies.

"The rise of AI in China is increasing demand for high-performance data centers, which require advanced optical fiber, and connectivity solutions," Lin said. "We are stepping up investment to meet these needs."

Corning is expanding in China's booming auto industry as well. "We will continue to invest in automotive glass solutions this year," Lin said. "At the same time, demand for large-sized TVs is increasing with people's rising living standards, so we are also growing our investment in display technologies."

Lin praised recent Chinese policy measures aimed at stabilizing expectations and improving the business environment for foreign investors.

ouyangshijia@chinadaily.com.cn