At the 2026 Fortune Global 500 Forum held in Guangzhou on September 16, Chen Jiacai, Vice President of Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. and Chairman of GAC International Motor Sales Service Co., Ltd., shared his insights on the company's international expansion strategy.
Chen emphasized that the pace of Chinese enterprises going global today is "a completely different concept" compared to the past. He noted that current overseas expansion is characterized by being healthier, higher quality, more orderly, and fully compliant, with companies aiming for sustainable, long-term development in international markets.
He highlighted four key factors driving this transformation. First, nearly three decades of independent innovation in China's automotive industry have established a strong cultural foundation that influences the collective approach and scope of Chinese companies expanding overseas. Second, China's industrial self-innovation is now actively supporting enterprises in their global ventures. Third, China's advanced new energy and smart driving technologies have created a relative "dimensional reduction" advantage in overseas markets, serving as a powerful demonstration of China's speed and capability. Fourth, China's comprehensive industrial and supply chains enable rapid responses to the diverse demands of different overseas markets.
Chen also stressed three essential principles for successful international expansion. First, compliance is a non-negotiable prerequisite—without it, companies should not even begin their overseas journey. Second, quality serves as the fundamental foundation for sustainable business development. Third, companies must prioritize integration with local cultures and communities.
These strategic insights reflect GAC Group's commitment to responsible and sustainable globalization, positioning Chinese automotive companies as competitive players in the international arena.