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FROM IMITATION TO CUTTING-EDGE: WILL CHINE LEAD THE NEXT WAVE OF INNOVATION? China's exponential rise is undeniable. It's a topic I frequently come across, with many highlighting the nation's big leap in recent years. The most common belief is that China will eventually transition from catch-up innovation to leading the charge in creating original, groundbreaking innovations. However, I see it differently. There are strong sociological reasons that support my perspective. First, China is a highly collective society, where the emphasis is placed more on relationships and harmony than on independence and individuality. Simply put, group harmony is prioritized over individual expression and freedom. In such a context, being and acting differently may not be the best option. Social cohesion and collective goals often come first, which can stifle radical creative ideas. That is to say, China may excel at collaborative creativity—perfecting and enhancing existing ideas rather than creating disruptive, radical innovations. Apart from this, like other Eastern countries such as Japan and South Korea, China scores higher on risk aversion. This cultural trait manifests in a more cautious approach to innovation, with a preference for stability, predictability, and well-established processes over taking significant risks on untested ideas. Finally, we must consider the impact of high power distance. In cultures like China’s, where decision-making is often centralized and deference to authority is expected, environments can develop where creative ideas from lower-level employees may not be easily heard or implemented unless they align with the goals of those in power. This reinforces a “top-down” approach to innovation. This is not to say that China will never be on the cutting edge where groundbreaking ideas emerge. There is substantial state-sponsored innovation, and China has the potential to shift its cultural dynamics. However, for now, I believe the most "disruptive breakthroughs" will continue to come from the West.

Looking at the countries/regions where the 2,500 companies that make up the majority of the world's R&D investment are located, the United States is far ahead in terms of both the number of companies and the amount of investment. China's investment amount and number of companies both exceed all EU members. There is momentum. Japan's GDP has been overtaken by Germany (2023), but its R&D activities remain third. This means that compared to Germany, innovation activities are not leading to value creation in some cases. In addition, not only 💰 but also creative talent is important!

📈 Navigating the World’s Power Play: What U.S.-China Relations Mean for Global Business! 🌏 The ongoing dynamics between the U.S. and China have been a rollercoaster, but recent diplomatic efforts show signs of cautious stabilization. This complex relationship is critical for businesses around the world, especially those dependent on global supply chains, tech, and trade. With both countries competing in fields like AI and semiconductors, how can your business stay resilient and innovative amidst such shifts? 🤔 Here are three strategies to keep your brand agile in uncertain times: Diversify Supply Chains 🛠️ – Reduce dependency on a single market. Invest in Technology 💻 – Leverage emerging tech to stay competitive. Adopt Sustainable Practices 🌱 – Prepare for the future of climate-conscious business. Join the conversation! What’s your view on the balance between competition and cooperation? Share your thoughts #GlobalBusiness #USChina #EconomicTrends #BusinessGrowth #StayResilient

🔍 Is Mexico poised to become the next global tech manufacturing hub? Recent trends suggest a significant shift in the global tech landscape. Leading technology firms are increasingly eyeing Mexico as a promising alternative to China for their manufacturing needs. The appeal is evident—proximity to the US market, competitive labor costs, and a rapidly improving technological infrastructure make Mexico an attractive destination. As we observe these unfolding developments, one must ponder the broader implications. Will Mexico's growing tech industry spur sustainable economic growth and innovation across Latin America? How do you see Mexico's role evolving in the tech industry? 👩🏼💻 https://lnkd.in/dn9fPERh #TechIndustry #GlobalEconomy #ManufacturingShift #Innovation

#DisruptiveTech 🔵 Will Technology Differentiate China Today from Japan in the 1990s? Ignoring the problems of its historical precedents won’t make China’s success any more likely. #technology #innovation #China Campaign Catapult, Pravo Consulting

Ever wondered why China's tech scene isn't booming as expected? 🤔 When it comes to harnessing technology for widespread prosperity, China's recent journey reveals some critical pitfalls. An evolving political landscape seems to be dampening the innovative spirit, introducing hurdles that could have been avoided. [Read More](https://lnkd.in/gDtcBWzi) I can't help but agree. Innovation thrives in environments that encourage freedom of thought and open exchange of ideas. When politics overpowers these principles, it's not just the technology sector that suffers, but the broader promise of shared prosperity. China's situation serves as a cautionary tale for the rest of the world. Balancing technological advancement with political considerations is delicate, but essential for sustainable growth. Let's take this as a learning opportunity. To foster an ecosystem where technology and innovation lead to widespread benefits, we must ensure an environment that nurtures creativity and inclusivity. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about making advancements, but making advancements that matter to all. What are your thoughts? Check this out: https://lnkd.in/gDtcBWzi

🔴 #GLOBAL #TECH #LEADERSHIP 🔶️ As I keep saying, with few exceptions, #China leads the world in technology innovation. 🔶️ China is currently leading in 57 of 64 critical technologies – up from 52 technologies last year, and a leap from just 3 technologies in the 2003–2007 period. Moreover, China has converted its research lead into manufacturing in most areas. 🔶️ In the early to mid‑2000s, #USA was by far the dominant research power. But that research lead has slipped to only 7 technologies. 🔶️ Read all about it in this report. (To download, hover your mouse over document, and click small box at the bottom right of the page; that opens a download frame at top right.) #innovation #technology #future #trends

"The Next Chapter in China's Growth Story" — Zurich, 21 November, 2024 As part of our #AsiaGrowthExchange (AGX) series, James Loudon and I will be in Zurich on November 21. In partnership with the 𝗦𝘄𝗶𝘀𝘀–𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 and our host, 𝗢𝗻, we’ll discuss the key trends and dynamics shaping China’s growth. With a slowdown in the property sector and challenges in the technology sector, China faces unique pressures at home. Yet, we see Chinese companies seeking new opportunities abroad, gaining traction in the U.S. and EU markets, which has prompted responses from Washington, D.C., and Brussels. How will these shifts redefine China’s global impact, and what can we learn from their strategies? Join us on 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟭 at 𝗢𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗯𝘀 – 𝗭𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗵 for an engaging evening with seasoned experts who will share their perspectives on China’s current growth trajectories, risk dynamics, and the evolving trends shaping sectors from electric vehicles to e-commerce: Nils Wagner, CEO of 𝗥𝗘𝗛𝗔𝗨 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 Alexandra Scherrer, Co-Founder & CEO of Carpathia AG Dr. Daniel Kirchert 戴雷, Founder of 𝗙𝗟𝗬𝗡𝗧 Bianca Pestalozzi-Houchangnia, General Manager EMEA of On 𝗪𝗛𝗢 | Executives, Entrepreneurs, Experts 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 | On Labs – Zurich 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 | Thursday, 21 November, 2024 (18:00 – 21:00) For inquiries and to reserve one of the limited seats, please contact James Loudon. #ChinaGrowth #GlobalEconomy #Innovation #AsiaGrowthExchange #EVtoECommerce #ZurichEvent

Is it still worthwhile to collaborate with Asian, including China? As I have been asked quite a lot recently. In the face of macroeconomic headwinds and shifting global dynamics, uncertainty can often cloud the vision of business leaders. However, these very disruptions can unveil significant opportunities, as the Chinese 危机, also been viewed as “ opportunities in turbulent times”. Not only in domestic markets, but also globally, businesses need to build strong local relationships which is crucial for success. Your local strong contacts not only help a business to be better connected, but also give you the insight on the ground to support each step along the journey. In order to achieved this, we tap into our vast network built over the years to help facilitate partnerships with trusted local entities, providing a solid foundation for your business operations and growth. One of the key elements for a successful project is to have the ability understanding local consumer or your targeted audience’s behavior and cultural nuances, as it can significantly impact achieving your goals. Our insights and on-the-ground expertise help you adapt and thrive in new cultural landscapes. It’s a fact that despite global economic turbulence, Southeast Asia have shown remarkable resilience and growth potential, making them attractive destinations for business expansion, both inbound and outbound. Having the experience in international trade for almost 15 years and helped numerous companies to achieve their goals, we understand the intricacies of international trade and the unique challenges of entering and expanding in Southeast Asia, including China. Our holistic approach combines strategic insights, local expertise, and practical solutions to turn uncertainty into prosperity. Based in Cirencester, we are only a phone call or message away to help you with both inbound and outbound business growth in Southeast Asia, so do drop us a line and see how we can assist you to be more confident in working with Asian.

Switzerland, not the U.S. or China, tops the world in innovation🇨🇭According to the Global Innovation Index, Switzerland ranks first by leveraging a high number of patents and researchers relative to its size. While America ranks third and China eleventh, countries like India and China outperform expectations given their economic status. Globally, innovation growth has stalled, with declines in scientific publications, patent filings, and venture capital activity. Even in China, venture capital is struggling, leading to potential new policies allowing state-owned banks to join the game—an unexpected shift. More here https://lnkd.in/eiPmTJBT #Innovation #GlobalTrends #R&D #VentureCapital #TechNews #Leadership